Embarking on your cruise vacation is an exciting experience. After all, a cruise promises adventure, relaxation, entertainment, and exotic destinations, all at your fingertips. 

However, as you step onto the ship, it’s important to be well-prepared to make the most of your cruise experience.

When it comes to cruising, there are many cruising tips and insider secrets that can enhance your journey and ensure you have smooth sailing.

As a first-time cruiser, I had a lot to learn on my recent Wonder of the Seas sailing. I was surprised by many aspects of cruising, especially compared to the past forms of travel I’ve taken.

In this post, I’ll delve into 11 valuable insights that I wish I’d known before setting foot on that cruise ship. 

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a veteran looking to enhance your next trip, these tips will help you confidently navigate cruising waters. 

1. If you don’t like the entertainment, just leave

During my first few days on the ship, I tried to commit to each activity, especially those we had reserved beforehand. 

If we went to a show, we stuck it out. Or if I attended a night at the Attic nightclub, I ensured I stayed as long as possible. 

But as time went on, I realized that the ship had so many options that it would be ridiculous to try to commit to each and every one. 

I learned to make quick decisions, and if I wasn’t feeling an event, to just leave! 

For example, I was viewing one performance of the (very talented) Voices acapella group, but it wasn’t my style. The unfamiliar music was made miserable by the fact that I could smell a man’s shoeless, stinky feet next to me. 

My sister and I quickly decided to leave the performance and attend a silent disco party instead. The silent disco was much more my speed and became one of my favorite events of the week! 

2. You don’t have to watch the balloon drop from below

I stumbled into this tip by accident. 

On night one, before the balloon drop, we decided to quickly explore Central Park, which happened to be located right above the Royal Promenade. We looked down the pretty glass windows and observed all the cruisers waiting for the balloons to drop. 

As a fascinated people-watcher, I decided to stay in that location and watch the balloons fall onto the partygoers below.

This gave us a lovely view and a separation from the noise of all the balloons popping at the end.

If you are growing tired of the balloon drop, scared of loud noises, or even allergic to the balloons, try watching the drop from a more separate location, such as in beautiful Central Park.

3. Keep all essentials in your carry-on

I had read this tip before the cruise, but not following it entirely is one of my biggest regrets.

Before your cruise, you’ll pack a smaller carry-on bag and a bigger piece of luggage, much like on an airplane.

Since you’ll leave a bigger piece of luggage with the porters, it’s important to pack all of your essentials and valuables in your carry-on.

I assumed this tip was just in case your luggage got lost, so I did pack my valuables in my carry-on but left my medicine and other essentials in my larger bag.

On embarkation day, we entered the ship around 12:30 P.M. and could access our cabin around 2:00 P.M. But we did not receive our larger bags until after 4:00 P.M. 

During that gap, I wished I had packed more toiletries and maybe even a change of clothes in my carry-on. You never want to be stuck waiting around for your bag to arrive. 

4. The front of the ship will (probably) make you seasick

I haven’t struggled with motion sickness much before, so I did not expect to feel seasick on my cruise. 

However, as soon as the ship set sail, I felt nauseous and unsteady. This was aggravated by the fact that we were assigned a forward cabin through the guarantee stateroom process. 

I found that my seasickness was worse when I was at the very front of the ship or looking at the water. 

Thankfully, I had planned ahead enough to bring Dramamine, but I always felt best when I got out of the room and headed midship. 

5. 7 days feels like a long cruise

My recent cruise was a 7-day sailing, stopping at Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

By days 5 and 6, which mainly were sea days, I felt myself getting a little claustrophobic. The ocean started to feel inescapable, and I missed my own bed. 

Being on a cruise feels unique because you cannot leave until the ship is at port. 

Thankfully, Wonder of the Seas is such a vast ship that 7 days hardly felt like enough time to explore it. 

I was able to minimize the cabin fever by investigating new areas onboard. 

However, in the future—especially on smaller ships—I would limit myself to 4 or 5 days.

Read more: Should I take a short or a long cruise?

6. You’ll need cash, but there is an ATM onboard

I knew from my research before the cruise that I would need cash on hand for porters, tour guides, or any emergencies at our ports.

Since I don’t usually carry cash, I had to rush to an ATM before we left for the cruise. However, I didn’t realize that there would be an ATM onboard the ship—there was no need to panic.

Either way, having cash on hand was useful. I was able to tip our porters, and some souvenir shops on St. Maarten had a minimum total before we could use a credit or debit card. 

7. Bring the broadest possible range of outfits

Although I tried my best to plan ahead when packing, I didn’t foresee the sheer amount of different activities we would have access to.

If I could do it over, I would pack outfits for activities like laser tag, ice skating, biking, water parks, and more.

One of the best packing decisions I made was to bring every single swimsuit I owned: I used them all and even bought a new one on St. Maarten. 

In addition to needing a swimsuit every day, we sometimes went to the beach at noon and the hot tub at night, requiring two different swimsuits. 

I probably could not have packed for every event, but my best advice would be to bring as many different outfits as possible.

8. Many features are included in the fare, but the rest are expensive

As I began booking and planning ahead for the cruise, I was surprised to learn how much was included in the base fare. 

The fare includes meals in the Windjammer, the main dining room, the Solarium bistro, room service like continental breakfast, and grab-and-go spots like Sorrento’s Pizza, Park Cafe, and Cafe Promenade. 

In the end, some of my favorite meals were included in the base fare, like the Windjammer's beef stew and cheesecake at the main dining room.

However, I learned that any extra features would add up quickly once I set foot onboard.

For example, I chose not to purchase a drink package and ended up paying $16 to $17 each time I ordered an alcoholic drink. 

9. Most people follow the dress codes, but only for dinner

Before my cruise, I knew of the dress codes, especially certain themed nights, like formal night or “dress your best.”

I chose not to particularly prepare for them while packing, other than bringing a few nice dresses. 

On the cruise, I saw many people following the day's dress code. Cruisers wore fancy dresses and suits on formal night and “dress your best” night, and I saw many Hawaiian shirts on Caribbean night. 

However, most themed outfits seemed to be only at dinnertime and for photos. At events after dinner and into the night, cruisers slipped back into the more casual, beachy attire worn for the majority of the cruise. 
 

10. Bring a wide variety of snacks to save money

Thanks to the advice I saw online, I packed a few options for midnight snacking: Taki chips, sweet candy, and gluten-free cookies. This ended up being one of my best packing decisions. 

I appreciated having something to eat at night or in between meals without spending the money for room service or dragging myself out of the cabin to find a snack.

I only wish I had known to bring more types of snacks, as I snacked at all times of the day. 

11. The food included in the fare tastes just as good as the specialty restaurants

Some of my favorite meals were included in the fare: lunches at the Windjammer, main dining room dinners, and complimentary coffee.

We reserved dinner at three specialty restaurants to compare: Izumi Hibachi, Wonderland, and Mason Jar. 

While we had a wonderful dining experience at these restaurants, I found that the quality of food was very similar to the meals included in the fare. For example, Mason Jar’s offerings tasted much like the Windjammer’s food, just limited to the specific Southern theme and enhanced by the decorations and plating. 

While we appreciated the experience at specialty restaurants, I wouldn’t call it a must-have: the free food was just fine.

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's new main dining room menus, and here's what I thought.

When it comes to choosing a cabin for your cruise vacation, many cruisers value a suite stateroom.  

Although suites come at a higher price, they offer a much more luxurious experience, including a larger space, often with one or more separate bedrooms. These spaces are usually more private and include a secluded balcony space with scenic views. 

Suites also provide enhanced amenities, priority service (including on embarkation and disembarkation days), and complimentary extras.

Additionally, Crown and Anchor members gain more loyalty points for staying in a suite room: 2 points per night, or 3 points per night for solo travelers. 

To exemplify why cruisers love suite rooms so much, we posted to our Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook page, asking readers for an example of their best suite rooms.

We asked readers to share their best photos that explain why they loved their suite rooms, and we received hundreds of entries. 

After carefully sorting through them, here are the best 17 suite room photos our readers took on their Royal Caribbean cruise. 

Cruise ship suites gained a lot of popularity for their size. Suites include multiple rooms, such as a living room and a bedroom.

Jenn Borawski Ullram’s submission shows a Star Loft on Oasis of the Seas, a 722 square-foot cabin that can sleep up to four people. The suite’s balcony alone boasts 410 square feet.

This luxurious suite is offered on both Oasis and Quantum class ships and includes exclusive perks such as:

• Exclusive Access to Royal Genie Service
• All Day Access to Coastal Kitchen
• All Day Access to Gold and Silver Dining
• Complimentary Specialty Restaurants
• Complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package Complimentary Refreshment Package 
• Still and Sparkling Water Replenished Daily
• Complimentary Gratuities
• Complimentary VOOM Internet
• Expedited Boarding and Departure
• Best Seats in the House in Entertainment Venues
• Priority Entrance to Many Onboard Activities
• Suite Lounge Access (complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails each evening)
• Access to Suite Sun Deck or the Spectrum of the Seas’ Balcony
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes for Use Onboard
• Complimentary Minibar stocked with Beverages and Water
• Complimentary Laundry and Pressing Services
• Luxury Mattress and Pillows
• Frette Linens
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Maker

Combining such a beautiful suite, multiple rooms, and high-quality perks, it makes sense that Royal Caribbean cruise fans would love this Star loft suite. 

William Smalley’s submission, taken from a balcony suite, exemplifies the gorgeous views and luxury amenities available in this type of stateroom.

For those who enjoy spending time in their staterooms while on a cruise, a suite stateroom is the perfect splurge. 

Suites offer more privacy than typical cabins, allowing you to enjoy your time alone or with loved ones in peace.

Suites may also come with larger entertainment centers and a library of movies and music, allowing you to unwind in the privacy of your cabin.

Especially for special occasions, consider splurging on a suite to make the most of your cabin experience. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Sarah Skelton’s photo shows a beautiful balcony view outside her suite. 

Suites often include a balcony attachment, but they differ from balcony cabins on several points.

Balcony staterooms are still only one room, just with an included balcony and scenic view.

Much like typical cabins, they only have a small room, a living room area, and a bathroom. There is no guarantee that a balcony cabin will be any larger than an inside cabin.

Suites, on the other hand, are guaranteed to be more spacious, with multiple rooms and space for more guests.

Balcony staterooms also come at a lower price, often more cost-friendly than staterooms. However, they offer fewer amenities and no private/priority service. 

They also earn you a lower amount of Crown and Anchor points each night: only 1 per night, compared to a suite’s 2. 

Additionally, the balconies themselves are usually smaller in balcony staterooms. Suites are bigger in every sense. 

If you’re still deciding between a balcony stateroom and a suite, it’s also important to note that there are more balconies available on Royal Caribbean ships. It’s best to decide ahead of time, as suites will sell out quickly. 

Suites will also require a deposit that is 10% of the total fare.

Lauren Ashley captioned this photo saying, “The view and morning sun were always beautiful!”

This suite photo shows the view of a balcony and living room area, all from the comfort of a higher bedroom section.

Guests staying in a suite can benefit from the multiple areas included, especially for those who want to spend more time in their stateroom.

Suites offer much more space to nap, watch TV in the living room, have comfortable meals through room service, and enjoy the peaceful balcony view. 

Especially for families and people with children, having a suite sectioned off means everyone has a space to be. Children can sleep below, in the living area, or amuse themselves on the balcony. 

Parents can have more room to themselves, as well.

Read more: I cruised in a suite for the first time. Here are 5 things I learned from the experience–and 3 I'd do differently next time

Jaye Whitaker shared a photo of this multiple-level suite. 

The multiple levels or bedrooms in a suite provide a convenient setting for families or friend groups traveling together.

The multiple rooms allow for families or groups to have separate sleeping and living spaces, providing privacy and minimizing disruptions—especially for those with small children.

Suites on cruise ships are also more spacious than standard cabins, offering more room to move around. 

This extra space can be especially valuable for families or groups, allowing them to relax comfortably and not feel cramped during their cruise.

Staying in a suite can also provide a degree of privacy that may not be available in standard cabins. This can be particularly important for families or groups wanting to spend quality time together without disturbance.

Gail Hudson wrote that her photo was taken in a Grand Suite on Radiance of the Seas. 

This Grand Suite is a 358-square-foot one-bedroom stateroom that sleeps up to 4 people. The attached balcony is another 106 square feet. 

Grand Suites are available on various Royal Caribbean ships, including on older and newer vessels. Newer ships typically have more Grand Suites available.

For all guests in Grand Suites, perks include: 

• Royal Caribbean bathrobes (for onboard use only)
• Luxury bathroom amenities 
• Lavazza espresso machine 
• Pillowtop mattress
• Priority boarding and departure 
• Concierge service
• Suite Lounge/Concierge Club access with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails every evening)
• Priority dining, spa, and shore excursion bookings
• Bridge, galley, and backstage tours
• VIP pool deck seating (not available on Vision or Radiance Class)
• Priority tendering 
• Welcome Evian water & fruit 
• Ability to order from the Main Dining Room for in-suite dining (during operating hours)
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Private breakfast and lunch seating (location varies by ship and sailing)
• Departure breakfast 
• Reserved seating for shows 
• Complimentary pressing on first formal night
• Extra Crown & Anchor loyalty points

On Oasis and Quantum Class ships, Grand Suite guests enjoy the above perks along with some unique additional benefits, such as Coastal Kitchen dining exclusively for suite guests, complimentary Internet access, and more private dining experiences.

The cost of a Grand Suite varies based on factors like the ship, time of year, and itinerary length, but newer ships tend to have higher prices.

Taken from the newer Symphony of the Seas ship, Laurence P. Gottlieb’s photo shows a two-bedroom suite. 

Multiple-bedroom suite staterooms are an excellent solution for travelers seeking more spacious accommodations for families or large groups.

These suites provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ensuring everyone in the room is comfortable and in proximity to one another.

If you’re looking to upgrade to a multiple-bedroom suite but aren’t sure you need a balcony, the Ocean View Suite is a great two-bedroom option.

If you prefer a balcony over an oceanview, the Owner’s Suite and Grand Suite are two-bedroom staterooms with a balcony included. 

Read more: I stayed in a $1,400 stateroom on Symphony of the Seas — see what my room on this cruise ship looked like

Ruben Reynoso’s example shows more of the incredible views and a comfortable room with a suite.

But don’t forget to also take advantage of all the perks that come with a suite stateroom.

Most importantly, you’ll want to get acquainted with the suite concierge on your cruise. The suite concierge is like a specialized Guest Services for suite guests and plays a crucial role in enhancing your cruise experience. 

Most ships have one suite concierge (with exceptions for Oasis Class ships, which have two). About a week before your cruise, the Suite Concierge will reach out via email to prepare you and provide guidance. 

They can assist with services such as making specialty restaurant reservations, resolving billing issues, booking shore excursions, and ensuring priority disembarkation.

Karen Berg Justin shared that this photo comes from an Owner’s Suite on Adventure of the Seas, a Voyager class ship launched in 2001. 

The age of this ship is no reason to fear sailing since Adventure of the Seas was revitalized in both 2016 and 2018. Both projects cost about $61 million and added new cabins, activities, and restaurant venues. 

Adventure of the Seas currently has 15 decks and holds 1,557 staterooms. 

She boasts access to thrills like the FlowRider, The Perfect Storm, mini golf, a rock climbing wall, and Studio B.

Adventure also has classic complimentary dining options like the main dining room, the Windjammer, Island Grill, and Café Promenade. 

Her specialty dining options include Ben & Jerry’s, Chef’s Table, Chops Grille, Izumi, Giovanni’s Table, and Johnny Rockets.

Despite not having all the features of other Voyager Class ships, Adventure of the Seas has many available, offering a great cruise experience.

Read more: 10 things I loved and hated about Adventure of the Seas

Lars Johan Storækre commented that this photo comes from a suite on Wonder of the Seas.

The current largest cruise ship in the world boasts 18 decks and 2,867 staterooms. Of those staterooms, 174 are various types of suites.

Wonder of the Seas was recently launched in March of 2022 and offers a multitude of dining, bar, lounge, and entertainment options. 

As a newer cruise ship, her staterooms will, of course, feel more luxurious than on older ships.

If you’re planning to sail on Wonder, splurging on a suite stateroom will be an even more magnificent experience. 

Wonder’s available suites include an Accessible Loft Suite, a wheelchair-accessible room with an elevator between the multiple levels. 

The Crown Loft suite features two levels: a Royal King bed upstairs and a sofa bed downstairs.

The Royal Loft Suite offers even more living space and Star Class benefits, such as a dedicated Royal Genie. This type is spacious, with 1,524 square feet of living space and 843 square feet of balcony space.

The two-bedroom AquaTheater Suite is located at the end of the ship. This suite provides sweeping ocean views and an expansive balcony, with 823 square feet of living space and 772 square feet of balcony space.

And lastly, the Ultimate Family Suite is the most expensive suite on the ship. It offers a kid-centric, family-friendly design with 1,134 square feet indoors and a 212-square-foot balcony.

“Love the Grand Suite on Symphony of the Seas. This photo says it all!” Ola Plaskon wrote alongside this submission.

As mentioned earlier, one of the benefits of a Grand Suite is complimentary 24-hour room service and the ability to order from the Main Dining Room for in-suite dining.

This means you’ll get every opportunity to have a meal in the suite, enjoying all the time possible in the expensive stateroom.

Especially for those with a balcony suite, the chance to enjoy breakfast looking out on the water is once-in-a-lifetime. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean room service guide & tips

Another Grand Suite photo! This one, submitted by Andrew Carter, was taken on Independence of the Seas.

Built in 2008 and later refurbished in 2013, Independence is a Freedom Class ship with 15 decks. She has 1,817 staterooms, 127 of which are suites. 

Grand Suites on Independence of the Seas have the usual Suite privileges but none of the additional privileges available on Oasis and Quantum Class ships. 

Independence also includes the singular, bizarre Ben and Jerry’s suite. This ice cream-themed suite is one of its kind, as well as being the only inside cabin suite on any Royal Caribbean ship. 

An ocean view isn’t the only gorgeous view a suite can offer. Beth Urban’s photo displays a beautiful perspective of the center of the ship.

Having a unique view is one of the best perks of cruising. 

For people who like people-watching, a suite facing the ship or the AquaTheater is perfection for witnessing all the activities and entertainment happening onboard.

On the other hand, if you prefer a view of the water or the back of the ship, the oceanview suite is plentiful, too. 

No matter which option, a suite with a balcony or pretty view is the perfect way to enjoy the cruise's sights without leaving your cabin. 

Andy Smith’s photo here is the view from an AquaTheater suite on Wonder of the Seas. 

This suite is part of the Star Class category, meaning it comes with top benefits and perks. 

It features a spacious living room, a master bedroom with ample closet space, a master bathroom with a shower and tub, and a second bedroom that can accommodate up to four people and a second bathroom. 

The living room has a large couch, a table with chairs, and a coffee maker. 

Of course, the highlight of the suite is its huge wrap-around balcony, which offers excellent views of the AquaTheater, the Boardwalk, and the ocean. The balcony is also complete with chairs and lounges for relaxation.

The suite also provides Royal Genie services, providing VIP access and privileges to guests in the cabin. 

Despite its high cost, the AquaTheater suite is a luxurious option for families looking to splurge on a cruise. 

Sherry Burden’s submission shows an included hot tub located on the suite’s balcony. 

Amenities such as the table and hot tub take suites to the next level, maximizing the luxury you can experience without leaving the cabin. 

Unlike shared hot tubs on the pool deck, these are exclusive and private to those staying in the suite.

This means you can enjoy a relaxing moment without the presence of strangers. You can enjoy a peaceful, intimate environment without worrying about crowded or noisy hot tubs.

Another advantage to this private amenity is flexibility in timing. While the public hot tubs may have operating hours and be crowded at certain times, a private hot tub is accessible whenever you desire.

Whether you prefer a morning soak with your coffee, an afternoon dip after lunch, or a romantic evening under the stars, the choice is yours.

You can tailor your suite experience to your preferences.

Joe Joe submitted to our Facebook page an example from the Oasis of the Seas’ Ultimate Panoramic Suite, a Star Class stateroom. 

Oasis of the Seas is a record-breaking ship, the first of the Royal Caribbean Oasis Class. Although launched in 2009, she underwent a Royal Amplification in 2019 when the Ultimate Panoramic Suite was added.

This suite offers 914 square feet of space with stunning panoramic views thanks to its wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. 

It also features a walk-in closet and an upgraded bathroom with panoramic views. 

The Ultimate Panoramic Suite accommodates up to four guests and is on deck 14 forward.

Since this suite is part of the Star Class suite in the Royal Suite Class, guests staying in the Ultimate Panoramic Suite can enjoy various benefits, including:

• Royal Genie
• Exclusive Complimentary Dining
• Complimentary Ultimate Beverage Package
• All-Day Access to Suites-Only Coastal Kitchen
• Still and Sparkling Water Replenished Daily
• Complimentary Coca-Cola Beverages and Water
• Nespresso Coffee Maker
• Access to Exclusive Activities such as the Bridge, Galley and Back Stage Tours
• Spa Bathrobes for Use Onboard
• Complimentary In-Suite Movies
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities by L’Occitane
• Duxiana Mattress and Frette Linens

This Royal Loft Suite picture was submitted by Brett Carb, from a cruise on Harmony of the Seas.

The Royal Loft Suite has two levels and provides more space than the Crown Loft Suite. The Royal Loft Suite offers even more living space, with 1,524 square feet and 843 square feet of balcony space.

Additionally, guests staying in this suite gain access to Star Class benefits, such as a dedicated Royal Genie.

These benefits also include upgraded bottles of L'Occitane shampoo, conditioner, and lotions in bathrooms, Mr. Coffee/Tea service, and Royal Caribbean bathrobes for use during the voyage.

Harmony of the Seas, another Oasis Class ship, possesses 18 decks, 2,747 staterooms, and 7 neighborhoods. 

In addition to the Ultimate Abyss, Perfect Storm, and Splashaway Bay, she boasts 6 complimentary dining venues and 9 specialty venues. 

Cruising has grown in popularity over the last ten years, an enjoyable vacation choice for many individuals.

However, some people might still feel skeptical about the value of this form of travel.

Besides the fact that travel is not accessible to everyone, there are many reasons why someone might choose not to go on a cruise. 

My opinion on cruising was no exception until recently. I have explored various other modes of travel but hadn’t wanted to cruise until I ventured onto the seas for the first time just last month aboard Wonder of the Seas.

Like many preconceived ideas, my cruising reservations were based on misinformation and inexperience and could only be disproved with further research or personal experience. 

From concerns about the overall cost to health issues in the age of COVID-19, I’ll introduce the top reasons I never wanted to cruise before.

In light of my recent cruise on Wonder of the Seas, I’ll also explain whether or not I found my concerns accurate.

Read more: 10 Ways Cruising Has Changed in the Last 30 Years

1. It’s too expensive

Before my first cruise, I assumed that cruising would be a too-expensive luxury. 

As it turns out, cruising is one of the most affordable forms of travel since accommodations, meals, and entertainment are all included in the base fare.

On my Wonder of the Seas cruise, we paid $2,674.76 for the base fare, about $382 per night for two people.

Since we only booked this cruise about a month beforehand, this is still a competitive price for such a new, large cruise ship.

We definitely could have saved money by booking our cruise earlier, ahead of time, or waiting for sales. 

Considering that traditional travel includes the cost of transportation, hotel or Airbnb accommodations, and meals, even before the cost of activities and entertainment, I think our cruise offered more value for the money.

Additional expenses, like drinks, specialty dining, or shore excursions, do quickly add up, but those costs can be minimized with careful planning.

In fact, it’s possible to plan a cruise for less than $100 a day.

Read more: I’m a budget cruiser. Here are 8 easy strategies I used on my recent Royal Caribbean cruise to save money

2. There are too many options

It’s true that choosing a cruise line and ship can be overwhelming. 

Without the help of a travel agent, I may not have been able to decide on one particular cruise, especially as a first-time cruiser. 

But you can always start with online research as well. We have several posts on planning your cruise, including how to start and choose a cruise ship.

Now that I’ve experienced my first cruise, I suggest starting your cruise plans with a certain destination. Choose what part of the world you would like to sail to, and then examine your budget. Make sure you find a ship that fits your pricing needs.

After that, you can focus on the particular ship and activities available. Some people look for specific slides, shows, or speciality restaurants when choosing their ship.

In general, you can set your own criteria, then you can see what’s available within those criteria and choose from those options.

3. I’m afraid of the ocean

Deep water makes me nervous, so the idea of cruising was formidable at first. 

Nightmarish news stories seem to pop up daily in the cruising world, whether it’s people falling overboard, getting sick, or losing their way at port.

In general, sailing out into the vast ocean can be quite nerve-wracking. 

But cruising is very safe when you stick to ship protocol. Cruise ships are prepared with safety drills, onboard medical professionals, lifeguards, and emergency lifeboats.

Rather than ocean safety, seasickness would be a genuine concern. But this can also be minimized by taking medication, gazing at the horizon, and staying in the middle of the ship.

Even as someone who experienced seasickness, I could power through it and found that the vacation was worth it.

Also, if you are scared of the ocean, cruising can be a fun way to overpower that fear! 

I enjoyed gazing at the sea in the mornings, experiencing beautiful new beaches, and swimming in pools, knowing we were perfectly safe.

4. Time in ports is limited

If you’re like me, you may prefer longer international travel where you can fully immerse yourself in a destination and explore it to the fullest. Cruise itineraries don’t usually allow for this slow-paced cultural immersion. 

On my first cruise, we visited multiple ports of call—Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten, and purchased Royal Caribbean shore excursions on St. Thomas and St. Maarten.

While I enjoyed seeing multiple places on one cruise, it’s true that the short stop did not allow us enough time to get out of the tourist traps and see more authentic parts of the islands. 

In fact, while we relaxed at Magens Bay in St. Thomas, a lifeguard told us that it was not nearly the best beach St. Thomas had to offer, just the most commonly known among tourists. 

Cruising port visits and excursions may not provide the authentic cultural experiences some travelers prefer.

Read more: Your really dumb cruise ship shore excursion questions answered

5. It’s not for my age group

A common misconception about cruising is that only old, retired folks go on cruises. 

Many people believe that cruises take much more time and money than other forms of travel. 

In that case, it would make sense that only those who are retired and have money saved up could afford to go on a cruise vacation.

On my cruise, I learned about seniors who choose to cruise instead of living in an assisted living facility. This choice is a cheaper option that allows more independence for senior citizens.

However, this group was not the majority. I was also surprised by the amount of couples, younger friend groups, and families with children of all ages on my cruise. I saw people from every age group on my cruise, from retirees to young adults.

I could also tell that the Royal Caribbean ship had tried to include activities for people of all ages: child-sitting services, kids club, teen group, and the Hyperlink young adults group.

Personally, as a young person in my twenties, I enjoyed the Hyperlink meet-ups, spending time at the nightclub, and relaxing by the pool. I'm not ashamed to say I loved the laser tag, too! 

6. There won’t be any people of color

Another common misconception is that only white people go on cruise vacations. 

Although luxury sailing has long been associated with rich Caucasian communities, cruising has become popular among many other groups. 

African Americans, in particular, are increasingly rating cruises as a preferred form of vacation.

It was to my pleasant surprise when I realized that my prior misconception about the demographics of cruisers was one of the most false things I believed before my cruise. 

Once we got onboard, I saw much more diversity than I expected.

This diversity was not just limited to crew members—who hailed from all over the world, a majority from Southeast Asia—but expanded to passengers and the people we met at ports of call.

The passengers I saw onboard were made up of every race, and many were from international locations.

For example, I met many Black people from all over the diaspora, from Trinidad and Tobago to the U.K.

7. I might get sick 

Illnesses can indeed spread quickly in the close quarters of a cruise ship.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have become much more aware of the potential for disease or infection in certain locations. 

However, whether you’re cruising or not, travel of any kind runs the risk of contracting a disease, especially between different cities or countries. 

Although this is just a personal anecdote, I can share that I did not contract any sicknesses from my first cruise or see anyone sick. 

In case of any emergency, I also felt assured knowing there were medical professionals onboard the ship.

However, those who are immunocompromised or concerned about potential illness might want to avoid cruising. 

Read more: What happened when I tested positive for Covid on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

8. It would take too long

Due to the history of sailing, many people associate cruising with long, excruciating days of travel on the wide sea. 

Many first-time cruisers are concerned they will get bored on the ship while waiting to dock at port. 

Personally, I did take a slightly longer cruise at 7 nights, but we only had 8 full days of travel in total. 

Considering that this was an international trip, we visited 3 separate islands in addition to our port in Cape Canaveral, Florida, which is remarkably quick.

Additionally, we didn’t suffer from jet lag or face any major time differences. 

If you have time for a more extended vacation, I recommend a cruise for the value: you’ll be able to experience many different ports, shows, and activities within that timeline. 

And even if you don’t have a longer vacation planned, plenty of shorter cruisers are available, such as 3-day trips that sail Friday through Sunday.

9. I don’t like big crowds 

If you have social anxiety or an aversion to large crowds, a cruise vacation may not be the spot for you. 

Depending on your cruise's date, size, and popularity, the ship can be pretty crowded. 

My Wonder of the Seas ship, currently the largest cruise ship in the world, accommodates up to 6,988 passengers and 2,300 crew members. 

Although the ship itself was expansive, with lots of space to explore, it makes sense that the cruise would feel pretty full.

As someone who doesn’t like large crowds, I appreciated that there were many places to go, some with a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. 

But I can confirm that there were people everywhere. You would be hard-pressed to find a place to be completely alone. 

And—a warning for the introverts out there—most events did take a lot of social energy, whether they were main dining dinners, shore excursions, or trivia game nights. 

Additionally, there was noise and music in almost every location: a cruise feels like a constant celebration, and it’s hard to escape.

10. I don’t have anyone to take with me

Who should you cruise with?

If you’re single or far from family, it can be challenging to figure out who to take on your cruise, and many people (understandably) have an aversion to traveling alone. 

Don't be afraid if you’re still concerned about convincing someone to go with you. 

Personally, I took my younger sister with me, and we had a blast! 

Cruising with another person can be much different than a land vacation: cruising provides much more independence while ensuring you both are safe in the same space.

For my sister and I, we enjoyed time together in our cabin, on shore excursions, and at the same activities we enjoyed. 

If we had been on a land vacation, my sister and I might have been worried about the safety of separating and spending time apart.

However, on one private ship with security and staff everywhere, we felt comfortable separating and doing the activities we liked most. Some days, I could spend time at the pool while she slept in. Other times, we felt like eating separately, and neither of us had any problems eating alone. 

A cruise vacation gave us much more freedom to enjoy time together but also to be alone without feeling unsafe. 

Thank you for joining us for this a look at all the Royal Caribbean news from this week. We had plenty to share, so let us jump right in!

Two Alaska sailings on Radiance of the Seas have been canceled due to an ongoing propulsion problem.

Guests booked to sail on a 7-night cruise on September 8th received an email stating that the ship’s propulsion system “experienced a technical issue.”

However, recent social media updates from CEO Michael Bayley state that the prognosis looks good for future cruises on Radiance.
If a sea trial on September 10th goes well, Mr. Bayley says that the ship will be set to sail for her next cruise on September 15th. 

Royal Caribbean News

• Hurricane Lee has changed some cruise ship itineraries
• Radiance of the Seas’ repairs look promising, CEO reports
• 10 things I loved and hated about Adventure of the Seas
• How and when to take advantage of Kids Sail Free
• Captain Johnny shares a look inside his living quarters

Royal Caribbean Blog Video: Things that can get you kicked off a cruise ship in an instant

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video: Things that can get you kicked off a cruise ship in an instant.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 511th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, where Matt answers listener emails.

From transportation with car seats to pre-cruise flight timing, we respond to all your questions in this week's episode.

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

After years of traveling, I went on my very first cruise and found it was a totally different way of seeing the world

After a lifetime of experience with other forms of travel, I went on my first cruise on Wonder of the Seas.

After years of traveling on land, being on a ship in the middle of the sea is a big shift. There were many surprises on my first entry into the cruising world, from convenience to seasickness. 

In this post, I share how this vacation was different from any other trip I’ve taken.

After 6 Royal Caribbean cruises this year, my wife and I tried Carnival for the first time and here’s what we liked and didn’t like.

Our guest blogger Mike Scudiero shares his first experience with a Carnival cruise.

In his post, he contrasts a 3-day Carnival cruise to previous experiences with Royal Caribbean.

What did Carnival get right, and where did they miss the mark? Mike discusses what he enjoyed, and whether he and his wife will continue exploring cruise lines, or stick to Royal Caribbean in the future.

7 surprising things I learned when booking a cruise for the first time

Booking my first cruise also held its surprising moments for me. 

Preparing for the cruise involved booking the cruise, packing, checking-in beforehand, and traveling to the port. Each aspect included unique pieces that I wouldn’t have expected as a first-time cruiser.

If you’re also looking to book a cruise for the first time, be sure to check out our tips and advice so you can have the best experience possible. 

I paid $300 to upgrade my inside cabin to a suite. Take a look at our entry-level suite

Allie usually sticks to inside cabins to keep her cruise fare low. But on her Odyssey of the Seas cruise, she chose to bid for an upgrade to a junior suite.

Although the spot was highly competitive, Allie’s gamble paid off, and she was able to move to a mid-ship junior suite on deck 10 for or $300 a night per person.

Check out her blog post for more photos and details of what made this junior suite so worth it. 

Booking my first cruise ever opened my eyes to a few lessons I never would have known before trying Royal Caribbean.

Last month, I booked my first cruise on Wonder of the Seas. The 7-day sailing traveled from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

There was lots to do to prepare. In addition to packing and planning my travel, I had to actually book the cruise, check-in online, and plan my onboard events. 

Although there was a lot to do, planning wasn’t impossible. I had plenty of help from our travel agent, and the Royal Caribbean app and website was easily accessible.

However, booking and preparing for my cruise was still a longer learning process. I made sure to do research as I went along, to save money and get the best experience possible.

Read more: Top things you didn't know travel agents can do for your cruise vacation

Here are the 7 most surprising things I learned when booking my first cruise.

1. Many features are included in the fare

As expected, the base fare was expensive: we paid $2,674.76 for myself and my sister, totaling about $382 per night. 

But as I began planning ahead for the cruise, I was surprised to learn how much was included in this base fare. 

This fare includes meals in the Windjammer, the main dining room, the Solarium bistro, room service like continental breakfast, and grab-and-go spots like Sorrento’s Pizza, Park Cafe, and Cafe Promenade. 

Some of my favorite meals were ones included in the fare, like the Windjammer's beef stew and cheesecake at the main dining room.

As a coffee lover, I was also satisfied with the complimentary coffee options. 

The fare also includes access to accommodations, entertainment shows, the fitness center and jogging track, pools, sun decks, and hot tubs.

Gratuity will also be prepaid in your base fare, so tipping is not expected while onboard. 

2. You can book a guarantee stateroom

During the booking process, I learned that you can choose a guarantee stateroom to save money. This means that you give up your choice of a specific room, and are assigned one for a lower price.

We ended up getting assigned a windowless inside cabin at the very front of the ship, and I later learned why it was a less desirable location. The cabin turned out to be quite noisy, and I suffered seasickness from all of the movement at the front.

However, my sister and I both sleep soundly and were active enough to be out of the cabin most of the day, so saving money was worth it in the end.

3. It’s important to arrive at your port a day early

When I started booking and preparing for my cruise, I learned that it’s recommended to arrive at your port the day before you board the ship.

This was a surprise, as I had to push up my travel plans one day. Since the cruise left on a Sunday, we decided to get into Port Canaveral on Saturday afternoon.

For Saturday night, we booked a hotel room near the port and were able to take a shuttle straight to the ship in the morning. It definitely made the process smoother and stress-free. 

And who doesn’t appreciate an extra night in a good hotel?

The only downside with this extra day of travel was that it made our cruise feel extra long. 

Read more: The costly cruising mistake newbies make planning their first cruise

Instead of just a 7-day cruise, we had about 8 full days of travel. And by the end, I was ready to be home in my own bed.

4. A passport isn’t required

I frequently travel internationally, so I had my passport ready to go, and it did make the process a bit smoother. However, my sister didn’t bring a passport, only her birth certificate, and she didn’t run into any problems.

Departure day was the only time we felt a difference: I simply got off the ship and had my photo taken, while she had to stand in a line to get her birth certificate checked. 

As far as international travel goes, I was surprised at how little we had to prepare beforehand. No visas, passports, or customs forms were required. 

5. Shore excursions are offered through the cruise line

As someone unfamiliar with the booking process, it was a pleasant surprise to see that you can easily find shore excursions through the Royal Caribbean app or website and book them ahead of time.

I was able to scroll through a list of options for our days on St. Thomas and St. Maarten, add the ones I wanted to my cart, and pay right away.

For our first shore excursions on St. Thomas, we met the staff at the Royal Theater on-ship and were guided down the gangway. 

At the start of the excursion, our group got onto a truck-like taxi with a tour guide. After driving around the island, we stopped at Magen’s Bay, where we enjoyed the beach for a few hours on our own.

Afterward, we got back in the taxi and stayed with the guides until the end of the excursion. 

On our second shore excursion on St. Maarten, we met staff on the dock just outside the ship, where we were guided to bicycles for our bike tour of St. Philipsburg. 

We also stayed close to our guides until the tour was over, and we were able to do some shopping on our way back to the ship.

For each tour, we had a lovely experience and felt assured that no one would be left behind on shore.

6. Porters carry your larger luggage on and off the ship

Much like an airplane, you can pack a large suitcase and a smaller carry-on bag for your cruise. 

I also learned that your larger suitcase can be carried on and off the ship for you, so that you don’t have to lug it around with you during the boarding process.

Before the trip, I made sure to print out the provided luggage tags for our suitcases and staple them on.

On embarkation day, my sister and I took a shuttle from our hotel to the port. Once we arrived, porters took our larger suitcases and loaded them onto carts. We took our carry-ons onto the ship at around noon and proceeded to explore. 

I noticed that Royal Caribbean advises you to pack any medicine or essential items in your carry-on. While I didn’t take that advice, I later found myself wishing that I did, as our luggage wasn’t delivered to the room until about 4:00 p.m. 

When it was time to depart, I was able to select my departure preferences on the app and I opted for “luggage assistance.” 

Luggage tags were delivered to our room on day 6 (the next-to-last-day), and that was when I learned that our bags needed to be outside our stateroom by 10:00 p.m. that night.

Thankfully, we came back to the cabin after dinner and spent some time packing up our bags and leaving them outside our door so they could be taken off the ship. 

On the last day, we exited the ship, went through customs, and found our bags at the provided station number. Other than the longer times we spent without our bags, it was an easier process than I expected.

Read more: 6 tips to help keep a cruise line from losing your luggage

7. Reserve specialty restaurants ahead of time

We purchased the 3-night specialty dining package for our cruise. Our first day onboard, we decided to go in person to Izumi Hibachi to make our reservations for the 3 dinners.

At the time, we were waitlisted for Izumi Hibachi, and able to make reservations at Wonderland and Mason Jar. 

Although we later got a call that there was a cancellation for Izumi, and we could have dinner there, we received a $35 upcharge for our reservation.

In the future, I would definitely attempt to reserve specialty dining ahead of time on the app or website, to avoid any waitlists or upcharges. I know now that the restaurants fill up fast, especially Izumi Hibachi!

Read more: First time cruisers: When can I prebook entertainment, dining and more for my Royal Caribbean cruise?

Growing up and into adulthood, I had the privilege of being able to travel to many different states and countries.

I fell in love with travel, marveling at how much you can learn and explore in a new place. I’ve been able to experience many different cultures and learn other languages. 

I believe that travel lets you discover more about the world and more about yourself at the same time.

In my lifetime, I’ve traveled by planes, cars, trains, scooters, and motorboats, but until this past month, I had never been on a cruise ship.

This August, I took my first cruise on Wonder of the Seas. I took my sister along on the sailing, and we traveled from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

On this cruise, I saw a part of the world I’d never been to before. Additionally, I found that being on a ship for seven days was a completely new method of travel. 

Cruising provided a distinct experience, different from my usual travels. Here are the 8 most notable differences between cruising and my previous traditional travel experiences.

1. Payments were quick and easy

Anytime I travel, I expect to use several methods of payment, including cash and card. During international travel, I also have to convert my cash into local currency.

In contrast, our cruise simply used our SeaPass for all payments, and all our ports of call used US currency. 

Payments were simple and easy, without requiring extra planning to convert cash.

2. The ship felt safe

As a young woman of color, I have to be extra cautious of my safety when it comes to travel. 

It’s essential to stay aware and alert. For example, I use special door locks at hotels and don’t share my location or travel plans.

However, I felt very safe on a cruise ship with security guards, lots of staff members, cameras everywhere, and private rooms with locked doors. We also felt reassured knowing that there was a medical bay located on deck 2 if we ever needed it.

Of course, I didn’t let my guard down completely—it’s always important to take precautions—but we felt very secure on our cruise.

3. The ocean was inescapable

The most significant difference between this cruise and my previous travels was the presence of the ocean.

Being in the middle of the sea meant constant movement. I experienced seasickness when we first set sail, but daily doses of Dramamine kept me feeling healthy for the rest of the cruise.

On the other hand, we also had a special view of passing boats and islands. The sight of the ship pulling into its ports was uniquely beautiful.

Despite the ship’s size, I did experience some moments of claustrophobia knowing that I was stuck on a boat in the middle of the sea—I couldn’t leave until the cruise was over. 

4. Everyone was friendly and welcoming

I was pleasantly surprised to notice how friendly and helpful everyone was. The crew members were lovely and kind, greeting us with "good morning"s and “hello”s throughout the ship.

The waitstaff in the dining areas were charming, and this open atmosphere extended to fellow passengers.

Contrasting other travels where you may explore an entire city, you start seeing familiar faces around the ship during a week-long cruise. Everyone uses the same dining halls, pool, and elevators, so it became common to recognize my fellow passengers.

I delighted in having conversations with everyone and exchanging smiles in the halls.

5. A wide variety of events onboard

In my past travels, I often visited one area with a few main goals in mind for that city. Orlando has Disney World, for example, or we’d visit Pattaya City, Thailand, for the beach.

But the cruise had many different activities, all on one ship! I was blown away by the options, from laser tag to ice skating, water parks, and more. 

In addition to that, we visited multiple ports with their own events and tourist spots.

It would be almost impossible to thoroughly prepare ahead of time for all the activities. But now I know for the future just how diverse my options will be.

6. Everything is scheduled for you on one app

Most of my previous travels have been very independent, combining ideas from Google, Tripadvisor, or friends in the area. This travel requires a lot of self-driven planning and forethought to get your activities in order.

But being on a cruise was utterly different. I found that all the activities were scheduled out for me in convenient proximity. I simply had to decide which events I wanted to attend.

I could even create and update my itinerary in the Royal Caribbean app. The app provides a full daily schedule and event details such as timing, location, pricing, and age restrictions. 

The Royal Caribbean app also has a free chat feature, which can connect you to other passengers even without Wifi. This allows cruisers to communicate, connect schedules, and plan their day all in one app. 

These features made my cruise so much more convenient. I could put down my planner and relax, just going along with the ride. 

7. The world is brought to you

The best way I can describe a cruise is that it feels as if the world's wonders are brought right to you. Usually, land travel feels like rugged exploration: you go out, find a location, and make the most of it.

On the other hand, a secure cruise ship has everything and everyone you need onboard. I was surprised by the diversity onboard, in both crew and passengers, that made me feel as if I was having an international experience.

I spent most of my teenage years living in Java, Indonesia, and I don’t usually expect to be reminded of the country unless I return.

But on our cruise, we met many Indonesian staff members, including our waiter and assistant waiter in the main dining room. It was an unexpected delight to chat with them in Indonesian and reminisce about the country. 

The passengers we met, as well came from all over: Toronto, East London, and Turks and Caicos, to name just a few. I enjoyed making new friends and learning all about their homes and cultures. 

8. Access to WiFi made the cruise less relaxing

Before the cruise, I purchased the Vroom WiFi package on one device for all seven days. 

Whereas other trips might require me to use my data plan or even to purchase an international SIM card, the package gave me access to a typical WiFi network, similar to what I might have at home.

The WiFi access was very convenient, easing my mind whenever I needed to research something quickly and allowing me to post photos on social media immediately.

It also allowed me to cast to the cabin’s TV and stream my favorite shows from my phone, a comforting way to relax during a long day.

However, I also found that the constant WiFi connection made the cruise feel less relaxing. We all know how consuming social media can be—a beach vacation just isn’t the same if you can instantly pull up your email. 

In the future, I think I would follow my sister’s example: she purchased the WiFi package for just one day (day 5, when we were cruising and not stopping at any ports). That allowed her to check any important notifications for that day and relax for the rest of the cruise.

We hope you enjoy your Labor Day weekend with friends and family! It has been a busy week of Royal Caribbean news and events, and we have a look back at everything that happened this week.

Celebrity Cruises makes significant changes to its inclusive cruise package.

​​Starting in October 2023, Celebrity Cruises will be removing gratuities from inclusive packages and onboard credit for guests staying in The Retreat. 

Celebrity Cruises will also be making changes to Aqua Class cabins, allowing guests to book these wellness-focused staterooms with just a cruise-only fare.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean cancels Radiance of the Seas sailing to due to propulsion problem
• Royal Caribbean revamps its nautical themed bar with new menu
• Adventure of the Seas review: What it's like to cruise on this ship today
• Save money on your next cruise with Royal Caribbean’s Labor Day Weekend sale 
• Icon of the seas plans to serve an over-the-top churro milkshake

Royal Caribbean Blog Video: Things on a cruise I hate, but everyone loves

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Everyone cruises differently! Matt shares some of his least favorite events on a cruise that everyone else seems to love.

You can subscribe to our Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube channel for more regular cruising updates. 

Our latest video shares reasons to avoid booking a cruise with a lot of sea days: 6 compelling reasons why.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

We’ve now released the 510th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast.

Not all travel insurance plans are the same, and you may want to research carefully before choosing one. Here, we interview Stan from TravelInsurance.com for advice on how to pick your travel insurance plan. 

We update our podcast weekly, so subscribe for more updates via iTunes, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or RSS.

You can also leave us a rating or review on iTunes, so go ahead and check out our links! We always appreciate your feedback.

I spent 7 nights in a 172-square-foot room on the world's largest cruise ship. Take a look inside my cabin

What does an cheap cabin look like on the current world’s largest cruise ship? Take a look inside this guarantee stateroom on a 7-day cruise on Wonder of the Seas. 

The room was clean and dark enough for a sound sleep. But when it comes to seasickness and noise, it pays to be wary of forward, inside cabins. 

6 reasons to refuse to upgrade your cruise ship cabin

It may be a dream of yours to upgrade to a larger, more lavish cabin. 

But there are downsides to placing a bid on a more upgraded suite.

It’s important to consider the room location and stateroom type you’re looking for. Also keep in mind the extra expenses and guesswork involved. 

And if you do move to a larger stateroom, you won’t earn those extra Crown & Anchor points.

Before you bid, keep in mind the top 6 reasons to refuse an upgrade.

30 Cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

Cruisers trying to get the most out of a stateroom, whether it’s a smaller inside cabin or a luxurious balcony stateroom, will appreciate these top 30 cabin cruise hacks.

Compared to hotel rooms or apartment buildings, cruise ship staterooms can be much smaller. You also will stay in one cabin for the length of your cruise, whether that is 4 days, 7 days, or even longer. 

Follow these tips and tricks to make sure your cabin is a home away from home for the length of your cruise.

I just went on my first cruise — here are 15 things that surprised me the most about this type of travel

Cruising is a unique experience for each traveler, so first-time cruisers can struggle to envision what their trip will look like.

Even though I planned ahead, I found myself surprised by many aspects of the experience when I cruised for the next time.

Check out my review for the 15 most surprising things about my first cruise.

I took my first cruise this past week on Wonder of the Seas, a 7-day trip sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

Before my cruise, I made sure to do lots of research, planning everything from my outfits to where I would eat each night.

I made every kind of list possible: packing lists, to-do lists, checklists—and even created a full itinerary, planning every event down to the hour. 

Of course, I should have remembered to ultimately expect the unexpected. 

After my cruise, I realized there are many things one can plan ahead of time, but there’s no way to perfectly control your experience. Diving in and being flexible is the best way to ensure you have a good time.

Despite my extensive research, there were many things that surprised me about this new type of travel. 

1. Everything was easy to figure out

Once we arrived on board, I quickly realized that the trip would be much easier than I expected. Most of my planning turned out to be completely unnecessary.

Staff members were ready and willing to help us, guiding me through any questions or concerns I had. 

For example, I was completely confused about the safety briefing we had to complete on day one. But as soon as we got onboard, crew members guided us to our muster station, where the staff told us how to open the briefing and complete it on the app.

The procedure was entirely painless, and we finished the briefing in just a few minutes. 

I could even ask questions through the app’s chat feature, which utilizes an AI to assist but connects you to a crew member online if the AI cannot answer your questions.

This feature was so convenient; any question I had was answered immediately, and I would have been able to connect to it even without the WiFi package. 

2. The app became my helpful cruise guide 

Along with my surprise about the ship’s accessibility, the Royal Caribbean app far exceeded my expectations. 

Remember that intense itinerary I made before the trip? As it turned out, I didn’t need it at all: the app has a feature where you can simply select an event and add it to your schedule.

Not only that, but the app also includes information on when and where each event is, any price included, what you may need to bring, and if there is any age limit.

Additionally, the app allows you to chat with other cruisers using their full name. This works without WiFi, so I could still coordinate with my sister, who did not purchase the WiFi package. 

We could even make a group chat with friends we met onboard and plan which events to attend together. 

The app can also connect your schedules with other cruisers so my sister and I could create and access the same calendar.

Something to note, however, is that the chat feature is blocked for cruisers from the EU, so our friends from the UK could not connect and chat with us.

3. International travel was incredibly simple

As someone who has traveled to other countries, I was shocked at how easy cruising made the process. No visa, passport, or even ID was required when we visited St. Maarten; they simply checked our SeaPasses on the way back onto the ship. 

Disembarking onto American shore was also simple. I brought my passport, so I just had to get my picture taken for identification. My sister brought her birth certificate and had it checked. After that, we picked up our luggage and were good to go.

4. Some of my favorite meals were included in the fare

From an array of options at the Windjammer to classy dinners in the main dining room, we were blown away by the quality of the food and service.

The fact that the Windjammer and main dining room were included in our fare made the experience even more amazing. My sister ordered escargot, for example, at no extra charge.

We also purchased the 3-night specialty dining package and visited Izumi Hibachi, Wonderland, and Mason Jar. All were incredible, with disarmingly friendly service and diverse food choices. 

Read more: 21 Tips for the Best Cruise Ship Main Dining Room Experience

5. The performers were more talented than I could have imagined 

Although I’d already planned to attend the shows before my cruise, I was surprised by the sheer amount and quality of the different shows. 

There was something for everyone, from ice skating to comedy to acapella music. I was amazed by how many different performers must be onboard and how each seemed passionate and skilled in their work. 

My favorite was InTENse, which included a dazzling combination of water stunts, lights, dancing, tightrope walking, and diving. 

I also couldn’t get any reservations for shows before the cruise, so I expected them to be sold out with no way to get in. But seeing each show was no problem: more reservation spots opened up, or I just showed up and could grab a seat. 

6. I enjoyed the parties but found the DJ disappointing 

Although my expectations weren’t too high on this front, I love a good party or nightclub, so I was excited to see what the cruise offered.

The ship’s nightclub was open every night, with a resident DJ and one special event: the RED experience. 

Although I enjoyed each event, I was left disappointed by the music. With such a wide variety of cruisers, I’m sure it would be hard to please everyone, but I would have appreciated more modern music with better transitions between songs.

Most of the DJ’s selections seemed to come from the early 2000s and were poorly mixed, to the point of playing the same song multiple times a night. 

Considering how amazing the show’s performers were, I was surprised the cruise didn’t have an equally impressive DJ.

My favorite parties were the silent disco nights, where guests were given headphones with two channels. We could select which music channel we listened to, giving everyone more options and a sense of camaraderie between people on the same channel.

7. The ship was overwhelmingly large

Our cruise was, of course, on the world’s current largest cruise ship, and I could tell. 

The size blew me away—I was quite overwhelmed my first few days. The ship has 18 decks, multiple pools and hot tubs, an entire Boardwalk and Central Park, and many shops and restaurants.

Thankfully, maps were located everywhere, and it became easy to find my way around, but even seven days didn’t feel like enough time to explore every corner of the ship.

8. It's hard to escape the ocean

It goes without saying that the most significant difference between a cruise and the travels I’ve done in the past is the ocean. It is a very unique experience to be traveling in the middle of the ocean.

Being on the sea meant that we were constantly moving. Looking down from higher decks, we could see the water, other ships going by, or even islands we were passing.

I did experience some seasickness on the first day but was able to recover quickly by taking Dramamine once a day. 

Although the ship was huge, I also felt a few moments of claustrophobia since you can’t get off until port days or the cruise’s end. 

9. I didn't pack for the wide variety of activities 

Although I tried my best to plan ahead and pack for any and every occasion, I could not have predicted the sheer amount of different activities available.

I had no idea we would have the option to do laser tag, ice skating, various parties, water parks, slides, and so much more. 

And that’s just on the ship—many options for shore excursions would also require different items packed. 

I probably could not have packed for every event, but my best advice would be to bring as many different outfits as possible.

10. Friendliness from crew and cruisers

Although I did expect quality customer service from a luxury cruise line, I was surprised at the level of friendliness and kindness displayed by crew members all over the ship. 

We couldn’t walk down the hall without a “good morning” from everyone we passed. Our waiters in the main dining room and specialty restaurants were hilarious and charming, and I shared smiles with all the staff at the Windjammer. 

The atmosphere was infectious and seemed to spread to fellow cruisers, too. I had conversations everywhere, on the elevator or while waiting in line.

During a week-long cruise, you start to see some familiar faces, and I was delighted to remember them and say hi every time. 

11. Frequent, sometimes confusing, announcements

Compared to other forms of travel, I found that my cruise had much more frequent announcements, such as check-ins from the captains or invitations to events from the activities director.

There were even a few announcements in code that I had to research, such as “alpha alpha alpha,” which indicates a medical emergency on Royal Caribbean ships. 

While these announcements were surprising initially, I appreciated the frequent updates over time. 

12. Finding time alone

I'm someone who often needs time by myself to decompress, which can be challenging when traveling with friends or family.

I didn’t expect much alone time on a ship with over 5,000 passengers, but I was pleasantly surprised.

The ship’s size ensured I could always find a space to myself, such as in Central Park or the Solarium in the mornings. Especially on port days, when more people were exploring the shore, I had plenty of peace and quiet. 

13. The weather can make or break a Perfect Day at CocoCay

Day 2 of our cruise was dedicated to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. 

Through my previous research, I understood that most of the activities and food on the island were included in our fare, but I was surprised to see how many things that included. There were multiple beach and pool locations, beach chairs and umbrellas, and a wide variety of complimentary food and drinks.

However, the day started out cloudy and looked even worse as the afternoon approached. My sister and I packed up around 1:00pm, not wanting to get caught in any rain.

On an island like this one, made up of pools and beaches, the weather turned out to have a huge influence on our experience there.

14. The drinks were expensive

The first few times I ordered a drink, I had to hide my expression at the high price. 

I had to keep in mind that the price came with the tip already factored in, but most alcoholic drinks I had onboard came to $16.50 each time, which added up over seven days.

Read more: Royal Caribbean drink prices

I chose not to purchase the drink package beforehand and didn’t end up drinking enough to have justified the purchase. Still, every time I ordered a beverage, I found myself cringing a little. 

15. I booked an inside cabin that left me feeling seasick 

Before my cruise, I heard that cruisers can feel the most seasick in the very front and back of the ship. I didn't expect to get seasick myself, but our guarantee stateroom had other plans for me.

Since we opted for a cheaper assigned room, we were given an inside cabin in the very front of the ship. The room was surprisingly rocky, leaving me feeling dizzy and nauseous. 

The front location also came with a lot of noise, constant banging and clanging from the anchor and the waves. Nevertheless, the room was kept clean daily and I was still able to sleep soundly.

Royal Caribbean is offering discounts on pre-cruise Planner purchases during the Labor Day weekend sale.

This flash sale will take place between Tuesday, August 29, 2023 and Monday September 4, 2023, with an extension into Tuesday, September 5th, 2023. 

The offer applies to cruises sailing between September 2, 2023, and August 31, 2024. 

Here’s an insight into some of the discounts you can expect:

Beverage: Up to 40% off

• Classic Soda Beverage Package: 30% off onboard prices.
• Evian Water Package: 40% off onboard prices.
• Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship.
• Refreshment Package: Discount varies by ship.

Shore Excursions: Up to 30% off

• Shore Excursions: Discount varies by ship.

Internet: Up to 35% Off

• VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship.

VIP Pass: Up to 30% Off

• The Key: Discount varies by ship.

Dining: Up to 30% Off

• Unlimited Dining Package on 3N–14N sailings: Discount varies by ship.

Spa: Up to 30% Off

• Spa Packages: discounted services.

Gift & Gear: Up to 20% Off

• Anniversary Decorations with Champagne
• Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries
• Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries
• Happy Birthday Bright Style
• Royal Caribbean Beach Towel
• Inky Beach Set
• Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe)
• Inky Octopus Family Travel Set
• Soft Octopus Travel Set
• Red Wine and Cheese
• White Wine and Cheese
• Strawberries with Champagne
• 9 Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• Happy Anniversary Decorations
• Winter Blanket
• Royal Caribbean Cooler Bag - Water
• Royal Caribbean Cooler Bag - Coca Cola
• Royal Caribbean Cooler Bag - Diet Coke
• Royal Caribbean Cooler Bag - Bud Light
• Royal Caribbean Cooler Bag - Truly Hard Seltzer

Photo Packages: Up to 65% Off

• Photo Packages: From 5 - 100 Print and/or Digital Options: Discount varies by ship.
• Photo Package: Private Photo Session: Discount varies by ship.
• Photo Package: All Digital: Discount varies by ship.

Onboard Activities: Up to 40% Off

• All Access Ship tour: 20% off onboard Prices
• Casitas Sea Day: 20% off onboard Prices
• Casitas Port Day: 40% off onboard Prices
• Introduction to Pickleball Clinic: 30% off onboard Prices

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

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

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

Last month, I booked a 7-night cruise on Wonder of the Seas. At the time, it was the largest cruise ship in the world, but the title has since been replaced by Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

For the length of the cruise, my sister and I stayed in a 172-square-foot inside cabin. 

I chose a guarantee stateroom about one month before the cruise, ensuring a cheaper price but giving up the ability to choose our exact room. The total price was $2674.76, about $382 per night for two people for a week.

As I planned for my cruise, I saw that we had been assigned room number 7112, a windowless inside cabin at the very forward part of the ship. 

Although the room was small, we thought it was just spacious enough for all our needs. It also felt clean and modern. 

Directly facing the door, the room held two beds, separated per our request. Next to each bed was a small nightstand with a lamp, a charging station, and two selves at the bottom. 

We found that this bedside charging station was enough for all our electronics—I brought two power strips, but we never used them.

I used the shelves for my nighttime snacks but wished that the nightstand had just a little more space on top: it was barely wide enough to hold my water bottle and phone at the same time.

My sister took the left bed, which had a phone on top of the nightstand. She was able to shove it into one of the shelves for some more table space.

In front of the left bed was a small armchair in the corner, where my sister kept most of her items, and, opposite that, a vanity and dresser.

The vanity had a comfy chair and a large mirror with a bright ring light, which we appreciated for our makeup and hair needs. 

The dresser beside the vanity provided counter space as well as five drawers, which I used for all the items I didn’t keep inside my suitcase.

We discovered that the TV above the dresser could be pulled out of its position in the wall to face the bed, a convenient way to save space until we needed it. 

The TV had only a few channels by Royal Caribbean—such as channel 7, which provided departure information on the last day. I was able to use Chromecast, however, to stream from my phone to the TV when we wanted to watch our favorite shows. 

My sister and I found that the closet next to the dresser also had plenty of storage space. We didn’t even use all the shelves inside the closet, although we did use all the hanging space for our jackets and dresses.

A safe was located inside the closet, but it was too small for my laptop, and I didn’t have any other valuables I wanted to store in there.

All the cabin’s lights were located next to the bathroom door. The cabin had a card power switch, which needed a card inside it to turn on the electricity. I’ve noticed this before in hotel rooms—apparently, it serves to save energy.

On our first day, a card was already placed there, but I noticed it was gone the next day our stateroom attendant, Merlin, came. When I asked Merlin about it, she gave us a dummy card to keep. I knew that we would forget our SeaPasses if we left them in there!

Before my trip, I saw people write that they needed a nightlight for the dark room. But the bathroom light underneath the other switches had a small glow that emitted when the light was switched off. This served to guide us to the bathroom in the dark and also to easily inform us if the light was still on. 

Everyone has different tastes, but I found that this bathroom light was all the nighttime guide I needed. 

Much like the room, the bathroom was small but functional. The clear shower door opened the space, and three large shelves provided all the needed storage. Above the sink, a blue flower pattern livened up the space. 

As someone who loves my long, hot showers, I can confidently say the water pressure and temperature were perfect and adjustable. We also appreciated the shower’s built-in clothesline to dry our swimsuits. 

I wasn’t able to find a single outlet inside the bathroom (only a “shaver’s only” socket), so I did have to use the hair dryer in front of the vanity. This was definitely inconvenient when I was trying to get ready without waking up my roommate.

Before the sailing, I read online that many people disliked the provided hand soap and 2-in-1 shower soap. I had no problems with the hand soap for washing my hands, but I did opt to use my own body soap during the trip. 

Our stateroom attendant, Merlin, was wonderful and cleaned the room every day, quickly replacing anything we needed. 

We also ordered the complimentary room service breakfast on two out of the seven mornings, and while it was convenient to have breakfast in bed, I struggled to find enough table and dresser space for all our food. 

One aspect of inside cabins people often mention is the lack of windows. As someone who loves natural light, I did find myself spending time outside of the cabin to get some sun. 

But when we were ready to go to sleep, I appreciated the pitch-black room. I slept so soundly in the dark that I had to start setting alarms to make myself wake up at all! 

Before my cruise, I wasn’t sure if I would experience any seasickness, but when I saw we were located at the very front of the ship, I knew to prepare ahead.

Most people try to avoid cabins at the very front or back of the ship, as those locations can leave you more susceptible to sea seasickness. And after my experience in this cabin, I could see why. 

Read more: The 5 best cabin locations on a cruise ship

As soon as the ship set sail, I started feeling nauseous and unsteady. The small cabin felt like it was rocking dramatically, leaving me dizzy. While Dramamine helped, I always felt best when I got out of the room and headed midship. 

Loud noises were another unexpected disadvantage from the cabin’s location. We heard loud bangs and clangs most hours of the night and day, especially when the sailing was more windy. 

Although my sister and I could never quite tell what was making those noises, we assumed it was a combination of the waves, the lifeboats, and the ship’s anchor. 

Thankfully, I am a sound sleeper, but cruisers who are more sensitive to nighttime noise may want to avoid such a forward room.

In the end, my sister and I were active enough around the ship that we didn’t mind the smaller room, and we appreciated having such a dark spot to sleep in. I recommend this stateroom to anyone who can sleep soundly and plans to be out of their cabin for most of the day.