Have you ever witnessed a stranger doing something weird, even unexplainable?

People-watching is popular because it can be so rewarding: folks do the strangest things in public! Witnessing these moments reminds us of the unique unpredictability of human beings—and often leaves us feeling a little superior. 

Cruising is no different; cruisers often feel that a cruise brings out the most bizarre human behavior. And on a cruise, you’ll have the most downtime and proximity to observe all the activities around you.

We asked our readers on the Royal Caribbean Blog forum the weirdest thing they’ve seen another cruiser do. Based on the responses we received, they’ve witnessed it all— from family feuds to a ship captain turned biker.

Get ready for a good laugh as we introduce the top 10 weirdest things readers saw other cruisers do.

“Strangest thing I've seen on a Royal ship was a college-aged adult wearing a wild and elaborate Halloween costume walking around the ship normally but completely outside of the Halloween season. Must have lost a bet with his buddies. It was a double-take moment. Did I just see that?”

- Twangster

Royal Caribbean does not have a strict dress code, other than prohibiting bare feet in venues and tank tops from the main dining room or specialty dining venues. It’s always possible that you’ll see some strange costumes or attire!

If you do want to wear a costume without sticking out, Royal Caribbean holds various Halloween events on cruises that sail over the October 31st date, including Halloween decorations, photo opportunities, and a large costume parade. You can expect costumes to be worn everywhere on Halloween Day.

“There was a couple on board with us a few years ago that danced in the Centrum every night. She was always in sparkly/sequined boots, either bunny or cat ears, and hot pants/short shorts with fish nets. He was always in cargo shorts or Demin shorts with a Hawaiian shirt, sometimes the sleeves were missing. Didn't matter the song, they were dancing and had some signature moves."

"They were definitely the stars of the show, whether they knew it or not."

"As we were waiting for our departure group to be called, two ladies were sitting behind us talking about "Sparkly Boots" and wondering if they had participated in 70's night. I turned around and said yes, they did. The lady asked me how I knew who she was talking about and I said the whole ship knew…”

- Kadmgs

If you’re wondering where you can see dancing stars like this fun couple, the Centrum is the large, open area spanning several decks that replaces the Royal Promenade or Esplanade on both Vision Class and Radiance Class ships. 

In addition to being the center of special events, the Centrum includes a main elevator, with bars, dining venues, and lounges overlooking its edge.

“Another strange occurrence is seeing your cruise ship Captain riding a Harley around Labadee. Captain Johnny keeps his personal Harley on board the ship. I was on this sailing when he tweeted this. Saw him riding it around.”

- Twangster

Captain Johnny Faevelen is a well-known character to many Royal Caribbean cruisers, but did you know he brings his personal Harley-Davidson motorcycle on board? For those who witness him riding it, this is definitely an unusual sight. 

For more about Captain Johnny, check out his book, The Captain, which details how he went from a fisherman to captain of one of the world’s largest cruise ships.  

Read more: 5 Royal Caribbean inspirations to prepare for your cruise

“If you were on an Alaskan cruise back in May 2016, and saw a tall, skinny teenage boy eat three plates heaped full of donuts for breakfast in the Windjammer (27 by his count)....yes, we did teach him to eat a decent meal. And no, we weren't eating with him. He finally fessed up long after the cruise.”

- barbeyg

Was this young man acting greedy, or just making the most of his paid fare? The Windjammer Cafe is the all-you-can-eat buffet included with your base fare, the complimentary dining venue with the widest variety of options. 

Your base fare also includes access to the main dining room, a grab-and-go coffee shop, and several quick food venues by the pool.

You will also have access to complimentary food at various venues on Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. 

“A guest busted for shoplifting.  Security searched the cabin, recovered the goods, and put them off at the next port to find their own way home.”  

- Twangster

Shoplifting is certainly included on the list of things that can get you kicked off a cruise ship immediately. And considering the ship is a confined space with security on board, it’s best to keep the law for at least the length of your vacation.  

“We were sitting in the hot tub around sundown and a gentleman proceeded to get in with a full plate of Windjammer food. Mostly I remember him trying to eat what I think was chicken wings and watching pieces of the food falling into the water around him. Needless to say, it was a clear sign that it was time for us to exit and go get ready for dinner. (I can promise you him eating in the hot tub did not trigger a hunger response!)”

- CruizIan

In addition to hot tubs onboard, Royal Caribbean ships also have a main pool and an adults-only, indoor Solarium pool. There are also several kid pools, splash pads, waterslides, and a 40-foot-long surf simulator, the FlowRider.

The pools are open most of the day, with many activities nearby, including live music!

“We had this one gentleman [who would] always wear different color pastel suits with a top hat EVERYDAY. We were doing a Med cruise and it was hot, yet I would see him in France with a baby pink suit and a matching top hat.”

- ClockingOut

You’re never required to dress up, especially in pastel-colored suits. Royal Caribbean’s dress code is mainly casual beach style, smart casual, and formal wear. You can wear beach or casual clothes for most of the day, and switch to a smarter casual in the evening. 

One formal (or dress your best) night will also be on the schedule during your vacation. On this night, you can expect for everyone to dress their best in elegant dresses and collared shirts and dress pants.

“An entire family had too many wines & decided to start fighting each other. Punches were thrown & security broke it up & sent them packing. The Chef felt so bad for the remaining few people that he sent servers to give us 3 free rounds of drinks. This was an epic chefs table experience.”

- Tonyfsu21

The Chef’s Table is an exclusive, private dining experience offered on Royal Caribbean ships to a limited number of guests, usually around 12. 

This experience includes a 5-course meal and wine tasting, with a personal waiter and chef decided to your table. Each serving of food also comes with a carefully selected wine pairing.

The Chef’s Table is an excellent and private experience, so remember not to start any fights if you try it out.

“It was a Christmas cruise and there was a couple in their late 30's to early 40's who wore Christmas pajama onesies all cruise long, day and night. They also had their own "custom" metal "Yeti" style cups and straws that they drank from. Rarely did we go to/through the Centrum and not see them there in their pajamas and drinking from their Yeti's. Needless to say, the Centrum was THE place to people-watch that cruise.”

- Kadmgs

We always recommend bringing a reusable water bottle for your time on board. In addition to a YETI cup, here are some other things worth bringing on a cruise: liquid soap, laundry hamper, luggage tag holders, shampoo and body wash, aspirin, chapstick, AirTags, noise-canceling headphones, air freshener, magnetic hooks, an e-reader, and a nightlight. 

It’s important to remember to bring the essentials because anything you purchase onboard will come at a much steeper price.

Read more: 100 item Ultimate Cruise Packing List

“We were on a Christmas and New Years cruise a few years ago out of Baltimore.....and on boarding day it was snowing.... This was the Grandeur of the Seas.”

- Rob&Ana

Yes, it does snow on cruise ships! While a strange sight, it wouldn’t be impossible to see snow onboard if you’re sailing through a cold, wintery area.

Royal Caribbean ships that sail from the Northeast of the United States, such as in Bayonne, New Jeresy and Baltimore, Maryland, may see snow as they board or disembark at these ports. But this sight is unlikely, and the snow will melt soon as the ship moves quickly south.
 

Wondering when is the best time to book a cruise? If you do what the top cruise fans do, then you’ll be booking earlier than you might think.

Compared to land vacations, people new to cruising might be surprised how early you can book a cruise and why so many cruise experts recommend booking a cruise months, if not years, in advance.

But is there such a thing as too early? Or too late?

While there’s plenty of advice on sites like this, that ties better prices to earlier booking windows. Then again, booking more than a year out is really hard to plan due to work obligations, family events, vacation schedule and more.

Read more: Pros and Cons of booking a cruise early vs last-minute

The timing of your booking could make a difference in the cost, availability, and overall experience of your cruise.

To help you consider when to book your next cruise, we asked readers what they recommended. Read ahead for three different options, and the reasons why fans have a preferred timeline. 

Read more: First time cruisers: What to know before booking a Royal Caribbean cruise

On our Instagram, we polled readers about which timeline they usually use for booking: more than one year in advance, 6-12 months in advance, or less than six months in advance.

More than one year in advance

41% of viewers, 502 votes to be exact, said they book their cruises more than a year in advance.

On our Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook page, readers expanded on why they prefer that timeline.

John Mavros said he books “always more than a year in advance. Best cabin selection.”

Booking early gives you a wider selection of cabins to choose from, allowing you first pick of the best staterooms. Especially if you have specific preferences or requirements for a room, being one of the first tickets will ensure you have the best availability.

Karen G. Zucker commented: “At least one year in advance.. sometimes two years. We need a handicapped room so we strategically plan!”

If you need a specific type of stateroom, like a handicapped-accessible room, booking early will confirm that one is still open for you. Whether you want a suite, balcony, or a specific location on the ship, early booking increases your chances of getting exactly the cabin you desire.

Readers also said that booking gave them a better price.

“More than a year in advance gets the best deals generally,” Justin Revell commented.

Joy Pralle wrote that she books “more than a year in advance.” and has seen “prices double or even triple when I try to do a mock booking closer to the cruise date.”

Cruise lines often offer rewarding deals and promotions to travelers who book their cruises more in advance. These deals include reduced fares or onboard credits, and can usually save you some money.

Several readers, like Michael Ott, said they book as soon as itineraries open “to get the best price.” 

If you have to make any other travel arrangements to arrive at your cruise ship, this benefit of an improved price will also include those, such as any planes or shuttles you’ll have to take to your cruise line. Purchasing those flights and other rides earlier will get you a better deal. 

For those excited about popular excursions or destinations, booking further in advance will also ensure that you get the best availability for your activities. 

If price or room availability are important factors, and you don’t mind planning a while in advance, booking a year or more ahead could be the best option for you. 

Between 6-12 months in advance

47% of readers, the majority on our poll, voted that they usually book their cruise between 6-12 months ahead of time. 

Brian Fluno said he usually books “between 6-9 months” earlier, and hasn’t had a problem, despite usually booking “prime dates like spring break, Christmas, and New Year’s.”

Booking 6-12 in advance can save some of the earlier availability and allow you to plan ahead while still reserving time for any unexpected changes.

Cruisers traveling in groups might also find that this is the best timeline, as it allows everyone to work around their own schedule, accommodations, and needs.

When it comes to scheduling conflicts, Carlos Varela said they “used to book further out” but now pick this timeline because “price differential refundable/nonrefundable has increased so much we cannot risk losing a deposit because of unanticipated scheduling conflicts.”

If you want to avoid disappointment and losing a deposit, booking 6-12 months ahead is the right time slot.

Jamie Fordham added that this timeline gives her “enough time to save and pay off and plan the rest.”

For Michele Saunders, it depends on the length of the cruise: “Short cruises about 6 months. Something like Alaska—a year to 18 months.”

Adjusting to the length or price of your cruise is always a good option for the best travel experience. To avoid any mishaps, allow yourself more time to plan those longer cruises. 

6-12 months was our most popular option. For planners with busier schedules or those who don’t want to risk losing money in a refund, this is the perfect time to book your cruise.

Read more: When is the best time to book a cruise?

Less than six months

13% of our readers said they plan a little more short-term, booking less than six months before their cruise.

Shakira Liz Estades Pérez wrote: “I'm that type of person who always think everything can change in a while and don't feel comfortable with booking for so many time in advance.”

It can be hard to plan more than six months ahead of time. If you prefer spontaneous travel or have less flexible vacations or paid time off, this may be a more realistic timeline for you.

For a booking this close to the cruise, it takes away more of the pressure around planning for months at a time.

Additionally, if the cruise line has any last-minute deals or cancellations, this would be the time to look for them. Staying flexible and spontaneous could save you money in the end.

Justin Hollon added that airfare deals are usually in the 3-6 month range as well, so keep that in mind if you need other travel arrangements. 

Last-minute bookings also allow you to travel during the off-season, avoiding busier crowds or higher prices. 

More experienced cruisers who are familiar with the cruise industry and booking process will also feel more comfortable booking last minute. 

Planning a cruise? Start here:

• 8 cruise tips for first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

Thanks for joining us for another weekly look at all of the Royal Caribbean news from this week.  The late-summer heat is still on, and we have plenty of Royal Caribbean news to share from this week.

Fear not, Royal Caribbean will not charge extra for pizza. 

After passionate backlash, Royal Caribbean’s CEO, Michael Bayley, took to Facebook to announce the cruise line will not be charging for Sorrento’s pizza.

Mr. Bayley wrote that 80% of readers responded “no” to an email survey that asked readers whether they would still dine at Sorrento’s pizza if an extra fee was applied.

Mr. Bayley assured readers that the change will not take place: "To calm all our Pizza lovers don’t worry we are not charging for Pizza."

Royal Caribbean News

• Meet Royal Caribbean's new Chief Meteorologist
• Celebrity Cruises just announced more Caribbean cruises that visit Royal Caribbean’s private island
• When will Royal Caribbean release new sailings for 2025?
• Photos Show Why Booking a Balcony Cruise Cabin Is Worth It
• 16 cheap and free things to do on an Alaska cruise to avoid spending hundreds on shore excursions

Royal Caribbean Blog Video: Latest Royal Caribbean News 

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Is charging for pizza on the menu? And an Icon update and changes to the Diamond Lounge.

If you haven’t yet subscribed to our Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube channel, go ahead and check it out for regular cruising updates. 

Our latest video also shows what it’s like at the top: After 70 cruises, I reached Royal Caribbean’s TOP loyalty level!

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

Click here for the 508th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast, to hear one of our listeners, Craig Storm, talk about his first experience trying Royal Caribbean after sailing on several other cruise lines.

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 it out! We appreciate your feedback.

The biggest cruise hack that has saved me thousands of dollars

Are you getting the best rate possible for your cruise fare? Saving money on your cruise will allow you to splurge on your cruise, such as purchasing drink packages, excursions, or specialty dining. 

Additionally, getting a good price will allow you to travel more often instead of breaking your bank in one trip.

Depending on when you book your cruise, you may be able to use this surprising hack to save money on your fare.

We asked our readers what one thing they wish they packed for their cruise

No one wants to forget an important item on their cruise. Either you will go without it, and suffer a steeper charge to buy it onboard. 

We asked our readers what item they wished they had packed on their cruise, and made a list of the most important responses.

From travel fans to aloe vera, make sure you’re not missing any essentials when you pack.

I stayed in the cheapest cabin on Adventure of the Seas

What does a night look like inside the cheapest cabin on Adventure of the Seas?

Angie recently chose a guarantee stateroom for her cruise, ensuring a lower-priced room but a random, often less favorable location.

Although clean and tidy, the room was small and windowless. Check out our link for a full cabin tour of the $300-a-night stateroom.

10 genius things cruise ship passengers brought to CocoCay to make it even better

Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island, where cruisers can have a complimentary island and beach experience.

While crew members will work to make sure your day there is perfect, it doesn’t hurt to come prepared.

Here are 10 items cruisers brought to Perfect Day at CocoCay that made their experience even better.

30 Do's and Don'ts for the first day of your cruise

What should (and shouldn't) you do on the first day of the cruise to ensure you have a great start?

There's lots of good advice out there, so we whittled it down for you.

From arriving at the cruise terminal to making dining reservations, exploring the ship, and finding the best spot for sailaway, here are some of the best do’s and don’ts for the first day of your Royal Caribbean cruise.

Whether you are taking a weekend cruise to the Bahamas or on an epic sail to the furthest destinations, there are a lot of cruisers who think booking a balcony cabin is worth it every single time.

What makes a balcony room so popular is the private space that gives a convenient means of seeing the beauty of the ocean and landscapes your ship visits. No matter where your ship takes you, being able to have a view from your own veranda really makes a difference.

As a matter of fact, balcony cabins are the most popular type of cabin you’ll find on pretty much any cruise ship, and plenty of cruise fans love these rooms too.

Although balcony rooms do come at a higher cost than interior cabins, the extra cost can be justified by the stunning experience and private comfort. If natural views and private spaces are a priority to you, a balcony room may be the best option for your cruise vacation. 

We posted a challenge to our readers on the Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook page to share with us their best balcony photo, the sort of photo that really evokes what makes this cruise ship room category so desirable.

After receiving hundreds of entries, here are the top 19 balcony photos our readers took on their Royal Caribbean cruise.

Picture from Alessandra Stover.

This fun submission shows some of the beautiful advantages of a balcony cabin. While considering the pricier balcony option, remember the beautiful sunlight and sea view you’ll have available. 

If you’re celebrating or wanting special time with your loved one, a balcony room also provides a romantic and private outdoor space for couples to enjoy. You can see the ocean, stargaze, and enjoy meals outdoors, all from the comfort of your own room. 
 

Photo from Shearin Kidd Johnson, Independence of the Seas.

This view of Perfect Day At Coco Cay is from one of the Independence of the Seas’ balcony staterooms. This balcony room allows cruisers to view their destination as the ship approaches—a fun preview of what’s ahead!

The Freedom Class Independence of the Seas boasts fifteen decks and 1918 staterooms, 724 of which are balcony options. You can guarantee a unique and beautiful balcony view on this ship, with a wide array of choices. 

Photo from Josh Overmyer, Jewel of the Seas.

This view from Jewel of the Seas reveals one of the major benefits of a balcony room: the sights of the ocean all around! Josh wrote that “this was the view I stared at all the time, so I took this photo and used it as my phone background ever since!”

If you’re going on a cruise and enjoy a beautiful sea view, a balcony room will allow you to maximize your time with visible ocean views. Especially for a shorter cruise, taking the balcony option will ensure you get your money’s worth of the water. 

Photo from Dawn Flowers Gratzke, Wonder of the Seas.

Dawn’s photo shows a loft suite on Wonder of the Seas, complete with two levels.

For larger families, or those with young children, a loft suite can provide a bigger space and a more flexible schedule. Instead of leaving the comfort of your room to explore the public deck, you can experience the ocean right outside your room. 

Families will also appreciate the separate spaces: there’s always another area available if you need some peace and quiet.

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Photo from Kelly Lene-Tarman.

Deciding between an oceanview stateroom or a balcony? Keep in mind that a balcony stateroom is typically bigger and offers a private, outdoor seating area rather than just an ocean-facing window. 

If you want an extra area to enjoy breakfast and coffee, feel the wind on your face, and actually experience the outdoors, consider booking a balcony room. 

Photo from Dana Fox, Alaska.

Photographers and nature lovers will appreciate a balcony view on beautiful natural cruises like Alaska. The closer view provides fantastic views and photo opportunities from sunrise to sunset. 

Photo from Karin Geistert Reinhart.

Planning on bringing a furry friend along? Service animals, such as Karin’s, are permitted onboard, so consider their experience in the stateroom as well. 

Pets will need more space and fresh air than a typical cabin provides. Consider booking a balcony room to make sure your pet has just as positive an experience as you do. 

Photo from Taryn Dawson.

Taryn’s photo displays another fun aspect of a balcony stateroom: the deck views. Even with a view of the ship’s deck instead of the ocean, this room still offers natural light, an extra outdoor space, and a viewpoint to people-watch and preview the ship’s activities. 

As opposed to a suite, this balcony stateroom will still have a larger space and more perks and benefits included. 

Photo from Judy Vang.

Still wondering if a balcony stateroom is worth it? You can also consider factors such as the amount of time you will spend in the room. If you think you’ll spend a lot of time in your cabin, you’ll want to invest in a more quality, enjoyable room. 

For families with small children, it could be a long task to herd enough down to a main, public deck. Napping babies will also keep you close to the bedroom while they’re asleep, leaving you wishing for an extra space to spend time in. With a balcony, you’ll have that extra space and a method of entertainment for any other impatient children.

Photo from Katie Meyers.

“Golden Girls while the sun is coming up,” Katie commented. As mentioned previously, a balcony allows you to set your own schedule when it comes to mealtimes and downtime spent out on the water. 

Traditional dining times in the main room are limited. For example, an early riser like Katie might be up as early as five A.M. But traditional breakfast doesn’t begin until 7-8 A.M. Having a balcony space gives you something to do while you wait for that traditional schedule to open up. 

Photo from Ashley Holenstein.

If you’re worried about motion sickness or seasickness at all, a balcony might be a safer option. 

Having a larger room midship minimizes the ships’ movement around you, making it feel more stable than in a smaller fore or aft room. In a balcony, you can also focus more clearly on the outdoors and the line of the horizon, keeping you stable and in sync with the ship’s movement. 

Photo from Collin Hext, Adventure of the Seas. 

This photo shows a gorgeous balcony view of Cozumel, Mexico, from a Junior Suite on Adventure of the Seas. 

The Adventure boasts fourteen decks and 1,963 ​​staterooms, 125 of which are suites. The Junior Suites on this ship are some of the smallest suites, at 277 square feet, but they are still larger than other balcony staterooms.

As the cheapest of the suites available, Junior Suites have some—but not all—perks included, such as bathrobes, expresso machines, luxury bathroom amenities, and priority boarding. 

Read more: I stayed in the cheapest cabin on Adventure of the Seas. It was small and windowless, but for $300 a night, it was a great deal. Take a look inside.

Photo from Leigh Michael.

Leigh’s submission shows an amazing view of the Sydney Opera House, another example of the many views available from a balcony stateroom.

Cruises will, of course, provide a beautiful view of the sea. But ships visiting particular sites or cities, such as Royal’s Caribbeans’ new itineraries going to Australia and New Zealand, can provide a spectacular view of classic tourist sites and city scenes. 

Photo from ​​Jana Mishelle.

Are you worried about spending extra money on excursions? With the investment in a more upgraded room, you can stay in and relax with a glass of wine or a book, all while getting a great view of the port! 

Staying in while the rest of the ship enjoys a port excursion can be a great way to enjoy some peace and quiet, especially if you have a balcony to yourself.

Read more: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

Photo from Chris Slaight.

When it comes to the best cabin locations on a cruise ship, a hump balcony is one of the best balcony options. 

The hump balcony staterooms are the cabins on the middle outer edge, whereas the line of the ship curves outward. These rooms usually have a larger balcony and more space, in addition to being more centralized to the rest of the ship. 

Photo from Sandi Harris Villano.

This submission shows another Junior Suite view, this one from the Vision of the Seas, a Vision Class cruise ship. 

The Vision Class ships are the oldest and smallest of the Royal Caribbean ships. Although they include most of the typical entertainment and amenities you would expect from a Royal Caribbean fleet, the room sizes are smaller and the activities less modern.

For example, the Junior Suites on Vision of the Seas are just 243 square feet. If you are planning a Vision Class vacation and room size is an important factor for you, consider upgrading to some of the larger rooms.

Read more: The rare cruise ship cabins that everyone wants to book immediately

Photo from Ellis Mingin, Oasis of the Seas.

As a step up from the Junior Suites, this view from a Grand Suite cabin on Oasis of the Seas shows just how big the 371 square foot room looks. 

One of the large Oasis Class ships, Oasis of the Seas boasts eighteen decks and 2,801 staterooms. In addition to the modern activities and famous entertainment available on all Oasis class ships, purchasing a Grande Suite cabin will earn you perks such as priority boarding, free luxury amenities, concierge services, access to the Suite Lounge, priority boarding, priority bookings, ship tours, VIP pool deck seating, and so much more. 

Photo from Stacy Leveille, Freedom of the Seas.

This view of Castries, St. Lucia was taken from deck ten of Freedom of the Seas, a Freedom Class ship. 

Hailing from the midsize Freedom Class ships, Freedom of the Seas has 14 decks in total, with 1,963 staterooms. Between the Freedom’s balcony options, the Deluxe is 177 square feet, while the Superior upgrades to 189 square feet. For a medium-size ship, the balcony rooms are a larger upgrade.

Read more: 10 things you should know before cruising onboard Freedom of the Seas

Photo from Scott Ciarlone.

“Love me an aft balcony!” Scott wrote. An aft balcony overlooks the back of the ship, displaying a wider view and different perspective than available from other balcony staterooms. 

The aft balconies are popular because they offer a larger balcony space and a special view of the wake of the ship as it passes through the water.

Have you ever realized in the middle of a trip you’d forgotten an essential item?

Packing for a cruise means trying to anticipate all your needs before you leave home, because there isn't an opportunity to just run to the store once you get on the cruise ship.

That realization always leads to a panic of making lists and reminders so you know you won’t forget it the next time. 

While traveling, you may be far from home and unable to find exactly what you need. Remembering to pack all the right items will ensure a relaxing vacation prepared for all your needs.

We asked followers on our Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook what is one thing they wish they’d packed on their last cruise. We received well over 200 responses and sifted through them all to find the top items that would be beneficial to a lot of people. 

Please note that we’ve linked items on Amazon, which contains an affiliate link. This affiliate link costs you absolutely nothing extra, but Royal Caribbean Blog makes a small commission if you purchase it.

1. A fan

“A travel fan,” Deanna Poljanowski said, “I’ve learned and have one this time.” 

Whether you want a portable fan to hold on a hot beach or a bedroom fan for some white noise, a travel fan could always be a helpful addition.

Remember that you may spend time on deck or beaches where you’ll want a little relief from the heat. A handheld portable fan could provide some instant relief and cool air.

A small bedroom fan will provide white noise and stir up any stale air in your cabin. If you have trouble falling asleep onboard, a small fan will be a big help. 

Some readers liked this portable rechargable fan to bring with them.

2. Sneakers

“I forgot to pack my sneakers! Couldn’t play on the sports court without them,” Angeline Deshazo wrote. If you’re looking forward to playing any sports on board, bring proper footwear. 

Royal Caribbean ships boast many sports activities, such as over 30 options on Oasis Class ships, including golf, badminton, ping pong, surfing, basketball, ice hockey, pool, and tennis.  

While people may think of cruises as only involving pool and beach activities where they might need flip-flops or sandals, remember the need for sneakers and sports footwear.

Read more: 15 free things to try on your next cruise

3. Binoculars

Carolyn Groves Pierce said she wished she brought binoculars. 

Your cruise will likely travel through beautiful stretches of sea or even land. Although you can view some sights with the naked eye, being on a cruise in a beautiful location such as Alaska may leave you wishing for a closer view. 

With a quality pair of binoculars, you will be able to view any islands, nature sites, or even wildlife from the comfort of your ship. This binocular model is highly rated for an Alaska cruise.

Read more: When is the best time to see wildlife in Alaska?

4. Wine

Kodi Moskorisin commented she wished she’d remembered her own wine. 

Royal Caribbean does offer an all-inclusive drinks package, but did you know you can bring your own wine onboard?  Having a taste of your favorite wine from home can help you save money and feel comfortable.

If you’re the type that enjoys a glass of wine at night, or you don’t need the abundance of drinks available in the daily package, be sure to take advantage of this opportunity and pack some wine of your own!

5. Entertainment

“More books,” wrote Julie Phelps. 

Your cruise is meant to be a relaxing vacation, so much sure you have plenty of entertainment available for your downtime or any waiting periods.

For any fast readers, bring extra books and magazines. Or if you want a lot of entertainment options, invest in an onboard WiFi package. In addition, be sure to reserve time to check out the ship’s award-winning live shows! 

6. Magnetic hooks

The cruise ship walls and ceilings are steel,” Lenee Jorgenson said, “I use magnets with hooks for everything!”

Although your cabin will have storage available, cruisers often need more space than is provided.  

If you think you may need extra cabin storage, you can purchase magnetic hooks to hang on the walls and ceilings. This is a valuable way to hang clothes, accessories, decorations, or curtains in your cabin without compromising your storage space. 

You could bring these magnetic hooks, which worked well as one of our inside cabin hacks.

7. Sunscreen

“Higher SPF sunscreen,” wrote Sarah Keough. 

You will spend plenty of time in the sun on your cruise—whether on deck, at the beach or pool, or exploring your favorite island excursion. 

This heavy sun exposure can leave you at risk for severe sunburns. A bad sunburn could ruin even the best cruise, forcing you to stay indoors while you heal and miss out on the fun. 

Make sure to do your research and prevent this by protecting yourself with high SPF sunscreen. This also leads to our next submission: 

8. Aloe vera

Nicole Armendariz commented she wished she’d brought “aloe vera gel. My husband was as red as a lobster at one point!”

If you forget a high enough SPF sunscreen and end up with a bad sunburn, aloe vera gel is a natural healing method for soothing the burn, healing skin faster, and getting rid of that redness for any vacation photos. 

Read more: 22 unpleasant cruise ship problems you aren't prepared for

9. Snacks

“Little things like pretzels, nuts, M&Ms,” wrote Carla Belin. “I don’t always need pizza at midnight.” 

Little snacks can fit just fine in a suitcase and help tide you over between meals. 

While your ship will have snacks on deck, complimentary options can be harder to find between meals, especially later at night. If you are a midnight snacker, having small options on hand can save you money and the stress of finding something available. 

Additionally, for anyone with dietary restrictions such as gluten sensitivity, packing personal snacks ahead of time can also be a relief from searching for something that fits your needs. Your snacks will already be planned out, ready for you to enjoy. 

10. Nausea medicine

Mary Torres commented that she ended up needing nausea patches or medicine. 

While most ships are large and relatively stable, some passengers are still prone to motion sickness. You could still suffer from seasickness while on board, so plan ahead and bring what you need for your cruise.  

Read more: Dramamine vs Bonine

You can also consult your doctor beforehand for the best options to cure onboard nausea. Get a prescription ahead of time to avoid an uncomfortable trip—and carry extras! You never know who may end up needing some relief. 

11. Glasses

“If you wear glasses, bring an extra pair,” said Lynn Creef Snyder. “Or one of those eyeglass repair kits.” 

While this may seem common sense, glasses-wearers should remember to bring an extra pair of glasses or a toolkit to repair any broken parts. For those who wear contacts, extra pairs are also important.

The last thing you want is for something to go missing and take your eyesight with it—and the right prescription could be hard to find! Make sure you can enjoy all the beautiful sights, and protect your eyesight by planning ahead. 

12. Ziplock bags

Sandy Yearsley-Swink wished she brought “various sizes of Ziplock bags” for “wet clothes and leftovers.” 

For anything you want to store away separately without using up too much space, consider a Ziplock bag. You can put dirty or wet clothes away in them, keeping them separate from your clean, dry clothes.
    
You can also keep leftover food in your Ziplock bags, ensuring it is secured for later, without any spilling or smells. 

Ziplock bags are useful for organizing and carrying all your toiletries, too—if any liquids spill, they will still be contained in the bag. 

13. Liquid soap

Janice Meyer Mori said she “brought liquid hand soup on our last cruise, going forward always on the list!”

Complimentary bar soap will be available in your cabin bathroom, but if you prefer the texture of liquid soap you’ll want to bring your own. For those with sensitive or dry skin, a soap from home is also the safest option. 

14. A small bag

Pen Jud Tolman said he wished he’d brought “a lightweight drawstring pack to carry my workout gear to the gym every the morning.”

If you’re planning to use the gym, sports court, or go on any excursions, you’ll want a lightweight bag to carry any essentials with you. This will ensure you can carry all the most important items without losing them or needing to dump out a larger bag. 

For any excursions you make, having a smaller drawstring or sling bag will be most convenient option.

15. Body lotion

Kelli Parks wrote: “There was none in the cabin and I had to buy the only one I could find on ship at the spa. Expensive mistake.”

If you’re looking for your own body lotion, bring some from home to avoid spending extra. With all the sun and salt water drying out your skin, you’ll definitely want some lotion on hand. 

Keep your skin smooth and happy with some body lotion from home.

16. Adjustable shoes

“Shoes that were more adjustable,” Alexis Ham wrote. “I suffer with cruise swelling.” 

Cruise swelling is a phenomenon people experience when their feet or ankles swell while on board. This may be due to the increased salt in the air, the changed diet, or dehydration while on board.  

Cruise swelling can often be prevented by watching your diet, exercising, and drinking water. But if you’re still struggling to get that swelling down, plan on bringing loose or adjustable shoes so you still have something to wear.

17. Water bottle

Danielle Zieger commented: “A Yeti to fill up and keep water in my room!”

Water is, of course, complimentary onboard, but what about your cabin room? It is essential that you stay hydrated outside of mealtimes, too: you’ll want water before bed, in the middle of the night, and right when you wake up.

Bringing your own water bottle ensures that you can fill it up anytime and bring it back to your room when you’re ready. 

You can also collect and refill the water bottles given to you at mealtimes, but bringing your own water bottle is an easier, more sustainable option to carry your water. People love Yeti water bottles, in particular, for their large size and ability to keep drinks cold for long periods of time. 

18. Swimsuits

Tara Samm suggested “more than 2 bathing suits.”

On your cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in pools, beaches, and waterparks. Bringing extra bathing suits will help you choose the most suitable one for each occasion. 

Maybe you’ll want a bikini for lounging on the deck and a sleeker suit for diving in the pool. If you’re sensitive to the sun, you also could pack long-sleeved options to protect your skin at the beach. 

Packing extra swimsuits will also save you time, as you can let wet pairs dry while you go swimming in the extras.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Dress Code

19. A carry-on

“A roll on bag or backpack for boarding the ship, carrying a bag was horrible,” said Susan Hayes.

Much like on an airplane, you’ll pack a larger bag and a smaller carry-on bag to hold while you board. Consider packing a carry-on with back straps or wheels so you don’t have to hold it the entire time you’re boarding. 

20. AirPods 

Many commenters, including Suzie Olsen Miller, wished they had remembered a pair of AirPods.

Any noise-cancelling headphones will be a big bonus for your trip, allowing you to listen to music or podcasts while blocking out any noise around you. 

AirPods are a great option as they are smaller than typical headphones and connect through BlueTooth, saving plenty of packing space. 

21. Shampoo and conditioner

“My own hair conditioner,” commented Kim Schwartz.

You will be provided with complimentary shampoo and conditioner in your bathroom, but many people find that the provided options don’t always suit their hair needs.

We recommend travel-sized versions of your favorite brands if you want something from home.