Royal Caribbean's loyalty program offers some of the best benefits in the cruise industry, but you can only utilize them while on a cruise.

As much as you might want to cruise frequently, vacationing is a luxury, and it can be hard to find time to plan your next sailing.

So while on those infrequent cruises, how can you best maximize your Crown and Anchor Society benefits? 

The program offers great value at every level: you can expect to receive discounts, vouchers, and even free cruises as part of your rewards.

Specific cruises will offer the best value for loyalty members who want to utilize their benefits.

If you'd like your next sailing to use all the advantages available from the Crown and Anchor Society, certain cruise ships, itineraries, and ship classes will help you maximize your experience.

Icon and Oasis Class ships offer more ways to redeem

When booking your cruise, you'll want to think about the amount of opportunities you'll have to redeem your reward vouchers and discounts.

Depending on your tier of the loyalty program, you'll get discounts on drinks, complimentary specialty beverages, free casino plays, and even BOGO dinners at specialty restaurants.

Every tier of the Crown and Anchor Society receives:

• 50% off coupon for any glass of wine, beer, or soda
• 25% off any coffee beverage
• 10% off any wine, beer, or soda by the glass

Ships with more venues will offer more opportunities and varied choices when it comes to redeeming these coupons, so Royal Caribbean's mega-ships (such as its Oasis and Icon Class) are your best bet for maximizing these benefits. Plus, kids get these benefits too.

From the amount of casino machines to bars onboard, everything about these ships offers more ways to cash in.

Read more: How to earn Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society points faster

Icon of the Seas, for example, has 14 specialty restaurants and 18 bars and lounges—offering a wide selection of menus and themes.

Throughout the length of your cruise, you could redeem complimentary daily drinks at an assortment of bars.

Use drink vouchers on a stop at a private island

Those drink vouchers turn into complimentary daily drinks once you reach the Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle tiers of the Crown and Anchor Society.

And since drink discounts and packages also apply while on Royal Caribbean's private destinations, booking a cruise that visits Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, Haiti will grant you extra time to take advantage.

Since most discounts only apply on the ship, you might be tempted to stay onboard during port days to make the most of free WiFi and drinks.

However, stopping off at a Royal Caribbean private destination allows you to still use both while enjoying beautiful beaches and luxurious cabanas.

Booking a sailing that stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, Haiti is a great way to maximize even more benefits.

Read more: What being a Pinnacle member means to me

Get discounts when you book a balcony or suite

The Crown and Anchor Society also offers discounts to its members who are booking balcony cabins or suites, so look at upgrading when you book your next cruise.

Starting at 30 points, cruisers can get discounts when booking balcony and suite staterooms.

While spending more on a cabin might not sound like a good deal, you'll be rewarding yourself with more luxurious accommodations while also taking advantage of loyalty offers.

Not only that, but cruisers also receive an increased discount for making a reservation more than six months ahead.

Royal Caribbean tends to reward guests for booking further ahead of time, so booking a balcony or suite stateroom far in the future will give you extra deals.

Consider the Crown Lounge onboard 

Royal Caribbean has a dedicated area on all of its ships just for passengers that have reached at least Diamond level.

Access to the Crown Lounge is included in benefits for the Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle tiers.

Open 24/7, this exclusive area features complimentary food, coffee, access to the Diamond concierge, and nightly happy hours.

To ensure that you're making the most of this benefit, you can research the Crown Lounge onboard specific Royal Caribbean ships.

Cruisers like to discuss their preferred size, layout, and style of the Crown Lounge, so look for a ship that best suits your preferences.

Some members prefer a bigger lounge, where they can spread out and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Others visit the exclusive venue for the social aspect, enjoying meeting other loyal Royal cruises, so they look for a more intimate experience.

Whatever your tastes, look for a specific ship to meet those needs.

Book an Alaska, Asia, or Europe sailing for your free cruise

The highest tier of the Crown and Anchor Society is rewarded with a free cruise.

Once passengers reach 700 points, they receive a free 7-night cruise in a balcony cabin (at the prevailing rate of a Caribbean cruise). Once they reach 1,400 points, the 7-night cruise is upgraded to a Junior Suite.

A free cruise sounds like a dream come true.

Royal Caribbean does not allow guests to book this sailing on a brand-new ship (it must be more than a year old), so you'll want to maximize these benefits by booking more expensive itineraries. 

The cruise line visits destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, France, Spain, Greece, Singapore, and Japan—all of which can be booked on your yearly free cruise.

Read more: I planned out 6 years of cruises so I could reach Royal Caribbean's highest loyalty tier

However, the free sailing doesn't include taxes, fees, or transportation, so you'd still have to pay for travel to and from the cruise port.

Use package discounts on shorter cruises

3-5 night sailings are a great opportunity to save money on WiFi and drink packages—with fewer days onboard, the daily packages cost even less.

When purchased onboard Diamond Plus members get 30% off deluxe drink packages, while Pinnacle members get 40% off.

Gold, Platinum, and Emerald members get discounts on Internet packages purchased onboard, while Diamond guests get one free day of internet access.

Diamond Plus cruisers earn two free days of Surf & Stream internet package per sailing, and Pinnacle Club members get a free Internet package for the length of the cruise.

Royal Caribbean just finished installing an architectural and engineering feat onto its new cruise ship.

The AquaDome is one of the signature areas onboard Star of the Seas, which will be one of the biggest cruise ships in the world.

The ship is being built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, where Icon of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas were also built.

The installation of Star of the Seas's AquaDome made history as the largest glass and steel structure ever lifted and installed onto a cruise ship, a Herculean task that took 80 hours to complete.

Photo by Niko Alakoski.

The multiple-day process took months of planning for a single feat of huge proportions.

Now, its completion marks the beginning of the next phase of construction. 

Royal Caribbean can start to bring it all to life, building out neighborhood restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

Star of the Seas will debut in August 2025, out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Even lifting the dome off the ground was a massive undertaking. 

Photo by Niko Alakoski.

Royal Caribbean had to build a custom, 155-ton rig to move the dome into place.

1,640 feet (500 meters) of suspension cables connected the rig to the dome. These cables are longer than the height of the Empire State Building!

To complete the lift, the shipyard had to rely on the wind to stay calm. If wind speeds reached 10 miles per hour (or 16 kilometers per hour), the entire operation would come to a halt.

In the end, the dome traveled over 1,200 feet (366+ meters) in the air and rested on top of the vessel.

Workers completed 6 hours of precise welding and other work to fully attach the dome.

The dome was first built alongside Star of the Seas, a process that allowed it to be constructed in tandem with ship construction.

This strategy is commonly used in cruise ship building to complete multiple facets of the process at the same time.

Read more: Royal Caribbean unveils changes to make Star of the Seas even better than Icon of the Seas

Cabins, ship blocks, neighborhoods, and other features are often built elsewhere, then assembled and added later at the shipyard.

The AquaDome is 82 feet (25 meters) tall, 164 feet (50 meters) wide, and weighs 367 tons (332 tonnes). 

The dome has 12 modules that were assembled over 8 months, composed of 673 glass panels and 712 aluminum panels.

But installing the dome is just the beginning. 

Next, the cruise line will work to bring the AquaDome to life.

Construction must add all the interior pieces, such as lighting, bars, lounges, restaurants, sculptures, seating, the central waterfall, and the AquaTheater.

The innovative, beautiful space will serve as a peaceful gathering place during the day and a lively, entertaining spot at night.

Once the AquaDome is complete, guests will experience 220-degree ocean views, restaurants, bars, nightlife, stunning entertainment, and a 55-foot-tall waterfall.

The AquaDome was first introduced on Icon of the Seas as a completely new neighborhood concept that was built on the AquaTheater in Oasis-Class ships.

Located atop decks 15 and 16, the neighborhood includes innovative features like the brand-new AquaTheater and the cruise line's first AquaDome Market.

Photo by Mediascope Productions.

Construction on Star of the Seas began in February of 2023 when steel was first cut in the shipyard.

Once construction is complete, Star of the Seas will sail to Port Canaveral, Florida.

The ship was originally scheduled to be delivered in mid-August of 2025, but delays in production and construction forced the cruise line to push back her original inaugural sailing.

Photo by Mediascope Productions.

The inaugural sailing will now take place on August 31st, 2025.

Cruisers can expect Star of the Seas to stay around the same dimensions as Icon of the Seas.

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer has stated that the ship's attractions are more important than the total size. 

"That's never been a focus for us," he said. "The world's best family vacation was never about size for us. It still isn't."

That places the cruise ship at around 250,800 gross tons total, with a capacity for 5,610 passengers (or up to 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy).

The Icon Class has been specifically marketed to draw in the family vacation market, especially appealing to families with younger children.

The cruise line has already ordered another Icon Class ship, due to be delivered in 2026. No further details have been revealed about Icon 3.

Leave those power strips, surge protectors, and multi-outlets at home.

Royal Caribbean cruisers might be surprised to see additions to the items prohibited onboard.

Royal Caribbean updated its prohibited items list. While you won't be surprised to see things like guns, drugs, or knives on the list, the cruise line also restricts some unexpected items.

Cruise ships have different requirements than planes and other forms of travel, so paying attention to each cruise line's policies is key.

Packing a banned item on your next cruise could result in it being confiscated, wasting your money and luggage space.

The cruise line posts banned items on its website, but not every traveler reads them carefully or follows the list to the letter.

To prevent issues on embarkation day, Royal Caribbean has further updated and expanded the list of prohibited items. 

Now the cruise line bans an item many cruisers bring along to get extra space for their electronics to charge.

Multi-plug outlets are now forbidden

Previously, the website listed electrical extension cords, including power strips or surge-protected strips, as banned items.

They've now added "multi-plug outlets" to the list, "Extension Cords and Multi-Plug Outlets/ Power Strips" is what the website lists as prohibited.

Read more: 15 things you don't need to bring on a cruise

The line doesn't exactly specify what constitutes a "multi-plug outlet", and it stands to reason multi-plug USB adaptors are still permissible.

Many cruise ship staterooms, especially on older vessels, tend to lack enough outlets to charge every device, especially for families traveling together.

Our team recommends this USB hub as a good alternative. (Contains affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use)

Cruisers may find that the new rule limits their ability to charge and use electronics like phones, tablets, e-readers, electric shavers, hair dryers, and cameras.

Why are power strips prohibited?

Power strips and extension cords are a risk to cruise ships because if they overload, they could cause electrical damage or start a fire.

These items are listed on the new list in a section titled "flammable items."

"All items with open flames or heating elements are strictly prohibited, with the exception of hair curling irons and hair dryers which are permitted onboard," the section states.

Fire is the top threat to cruise ships as it can spread quickly in a confined space.

These items include:

• Candles
• Clothing Irons
• Travel Steamer
• Hot Plates
• Incense & Burners
• Tea Cup Immersion Heaters
• Aerosols (except for personal care toiletries)
• Fuels, including cooking fuels and any flammable liquids
• Gasoline
• Gas Torches
• Lighter Fluid
• Flares
• Flammable Paints
• Turpentine & Paint Thinner
• Realistic Replicas of Incendiaries
• Hookahs & Water Hookah Pipes
• Car batteries
• Hoverboards

Updates to the website list more examples of banned items

Royal Caribbean also expanded its banned list to include expanded examples of prohibited items.

The sharp objects section, for instance, now mentions not just knives and scissors, but also box cutters, ice picks, meat cleavers, utility knives, razor blades (shaving safety razors are still allowed), sabers, swords, and fencing foils.

Recreational diving knives are also still allowed but must be held in the custody of the Chief Security Officer.

Read more: 9 things you can bring on a plane, but not a cruise ship

A note also explains that personal grooming items like nail scissors and clippers are permitted onboard.

Prohibited chemicals include chlorine, spray paint, bleach, tear gas, transformers, spillable batteries, small compressed gas cartridges, and fire extinguishers.

Despite the high-risk fire presents on a cruise ship, you don't need to bring your own fire extinguisher onboard!

Updates to the website also added a new section, "tools," listing items from commonplace supplies like hammers, drills, saws, wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers, to surprisingly obscure items, like cattle prods, axes, and hatchets.

The cruise line especially wants to be sure that guests don't bring any dangerous items.

Any types of firearms or weapons are prohibited, such as rifles, shotguns, pistols, revolvers, replicas of guns, BB guns, paintball guns, flare guns, ammunition, spear guns, pellet guns, and starter pistols.

The website doesn't mention toys or unrealistic replicas, like Nerf guns.

Royal Caribbean also doesn't want guests bringing explosives such as fireworks, dynamite, hand grenades, or gunpowder.

The list also prohibits self-defense items, including:

• Billy Clubs
• Black Jacks
• Brass Knuckles
• Kubatons
• Mace / Pepper Spray
• Martial Arts Weapons
• Night Sticks
• Nunchakus
• Stun Guns / Shocking Devices
• Throwing Stars
• Handcuffs
• Bows & Arrows

Royal Caribbean luggage tags ensure that your luggage arrives safely at your stateroom door on embarkation day.

On embarkation day, you can drop off your larger luggage to be delivered to your stateroom.

Just like checking larger bags at the airport, you'll want to label and drop them off at the right stop.

On Royal Caribbean cruises, luggage tags identify your bags to the porters and crew onboard.

They identify you, your stateroom, and your Crown and Anchor status.

Your cruise ship luggage tags should be attached before you even arrive at the terminal for your sailing.

So how do you get your luggage tags and attach them?

What information should be on them?

This guide will present all the luggage tags and holders you need for your next Royal Caribbean cruise.

Please note that we have linked Amazon items in this post through an affiliate link. The affiliate link costs you nothing extra, but Royal Caribbean Blog will make a small commission if you purchase the item through the link. 

Where can I find my luggage tags?

Your luggage tags will be sent to you before embarkation day so that you can print them ahead of time.

Before your sailing (usually after the final payment is made), you'll receive your electronic cruise documents via email. If you don’t get an email, you can find you eDocs on your account on the Royal webpage.

These eDocs include your ship, sail date and information, stateroom, deck number, and directions to the cruise port. 

On the last page, the eDocs will have your luggage tags, already programmed with your stateroom and Crown and Anchor Society level.

You can also find your tags on the Royal Caribbean Website.

After logging in, click on the Upcoming Cruises tab. Find your desired cruise, then press the toggle button that says More details. Under this toggle, you'll find a printable PDF titled Luggage Tags.

You'll want to download and print as many of this PDF as you need to attach to your luggage. 

Read more: Where do I get my Royal Caribbean luggage tags?

Printing your luggage tags out in advance saves you time at port, especially if there are crowds or lines.

If you don't have a printer at home, many pharmacies offer printing services, or you can try your local library for a free option.

How do I attach the luggage tags?

To attach the printed luggage tag, fold the tag along the lines three times. The logo should be facing out, and you'll need to print your full name in the section indicated.

After folding, staple the tag twice or tape it to attach it to the handle in the areas indicated.

If you're staying at a hotel the night before your cruise, you'll have to remember to pack tape or a mini-stapler.

Make sure you have several copies to label each bag you're taking along—even your cruise carry-on bag.

You should never pack valuables, medication, or boarding documents in your checked bag.

You should also still attach any personal ID or labels, like a name tag or airline luggage tag before you leave home.

When you arrive at the terminal, simply hand off your bags to the porters outside. 

They'll take your bags onto the ship, where they will be sorted and later delivered to your stateroom. Don't forget to tip!

Should I purchase a luggage tag holder?

Luggage tag holders aren't necessary for crew members to deliver your luggage, but they make embarkation day go a lot smoother.

Since luggage tags are made of regular printer paper, they could easily rip or fall off.

If this happens, your luggage will be placed in a room with other unidentified bags, and you'll have to go to Guest Services to claim your bags.

Read more: I tried the best inside cruise ship cabin hacks to see how well they worked

To prevent this from happening, however, you could also purchase a luggage tag holder.

Most luggage tag holders are made from plastic and have a metal ring that attaches to the bag.

You'll place the paper tags inside the clear, waterproof holders, and they'll 

fasten more securely than tape or staples.

I highly recommend purchasing luggage tag holders—they can ease your mind when it comes to the possibility of losing your luggage. 

I use these tags from Amazon.

When you do purchase your luggage tag holders, make sure they're for Royal Caribbean specifically. Some cruise lines have different-sized luggage tags.

Also, you won't have to think about bringing along tape or a mini stapler to attach your tags on embarkation day.

All you need are the holders and a writing utensil to fill in your name.

For bonus security, you could also bring along regular luggage tags with your name, address, and contact information, for any air travel or delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forget to print my luggage tags?

If you forget to print out your luggage tag before the cruise, you can still get some on embarkation day.

When you arrive at the terminal, you'll see porters standing outside a drop-off area for luggage.

Greet the porter, and tell them your stateroom number. They will have generic tags that they can label with your cabin and name, and then take your luggage.

Printing your luggage tags out in advance saves you time at port, especially if there are crowds or lines.

However, you won't be in trouble if you forget to.

What happens if the tag falls off?

If your luggage tag does rip or fall off in transit, don't worry. 

Crew members will place your bags in a room with other unidentified luggage.

When you've waited a reasonable amount of time for your bags, you can go to Guest Services to identify and claim them.

What about on departure day?

You'll also notice your stateroom attendant leave luggage tags for disembarkation day.

However, this process is different than on embarkation day—and not always required.

You'll only need to use these luggage tags if you've selected luggage assistance.

You'll be assigned a particular number and time when you can disembark the ship, matching you with your checked luggage.

Walking into the back of the biggest cruise ships in the world, you'll be surprised all of the fun Royal Caribbean was able to include.

Royal Caribbean's Oasis and Icon Class ships broke records with their size and amenities. Ships in both classes share a lot of similarities, such as modern accommodations, waterslides, ice skating rinks, and shared venues. 

Both Icon and Oasis Class ships also feature distinct neighborhoods, dividing the ships up into themed sections.

The vessels share similar neighborhoods, such as Central Park, the Royal Promenade, and Suite neighborhoods (on Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas).

However, the debut of Icon of the Seas introduced a new neighborhood: Surfside.

Surfside neighborhood was built on the aft of Icon, replacing the location that was the Boardwalk on Oasis-Class ships. 

While both neighborhoods take up the aft of these mega-ships, that's where the similarities end.

What are neighborhoods?

One unique aspect of Royal Caribbean's mega-ships is that each vessel is divided into distinct neighborhoods that offer something for everyone.

Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean President and CEO, has stated that neighborhoods make these ships so successful.

"Neighborhoods have been able to pull people together into spaces that they really enjoy," he said. "Everyone has something [they] are excited to do during the day."

Themed areas on a large vessel make it easier for cruisers to find their bearings and to congregate with like-minded individuals who enjoy the same activities.

Read more: Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas

When it comes to booking a cruise ship, it's important to identify which of its neighborhoods interest you.

If you like the sound of a luxuriously exclusive suite neighborhood, booking an Icon Class ship will grant you that experience.

On the other hand, if you love the nostalgia of the Boardwalk, you'll want to sail on an Oasis Class vessel.

Oasis Class ships have the following neighborhoods:

• Boardwalk
• Central Park
• Royal Promenade
• Pool and Sports Zone
• Entertainment Place
• Youth Zone
• Vitality Spa and Fitness
• Suite Neighborhood (on Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas)

Read more: Wonder of the Seas neighborhoods tour

Icon Class ships (Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, thus far) have the following neighborhoods:

• Central Park
• Royal Promenade
• Suite Neighborhood
• AquaDome
• Thrill Island
• The Hideaway
• Chill Island
• Surfside

Boardwalk vs. Surfside

If you've ever walked along a seaside pier or visited an old-fashioned beach boardwalk fair, Boardwalk Neighborhood will instantly invoke those nostalgic sights and smells.

The Boardwalk is decorated in bright colors and centers on the popular Royal Caribbean carousel. 

Children and adults alike will enjoy this handcrafted, colorful ride, which is free to ride all day.

Past the carousel, each Oasis-class ship features the exit to the Ultimate Abyss dry slide.

The 10-story dry slide is the tallest at sea and exits right onto the Boardwalk.

The end of the Boardwalk hosts the ship's AquaTheater, an open-air amphitheater overlooking the stern of the ship. 

In front of the large pool and diving boards, guests can enjoy the spectacular, awe-inspiring feats of Royal Caribbean's AquaShows in front of a stunning ocean view.

Icon Class ships, on the other hand, completely changed the game by replacing the Boardwalk and AquaTheater with the Surfside Neighborhood.

This neighborhood is a brand-new design intended to cater to families with young children.

The only similarity Surfside holds with Boardwalk is that the classic carousel still stands in the middle—but instead of a classic fair carousel, Surfside's is a beachy, pastel-colored design.

The entire layout of the neighborhood prioritizes kids' comfort, with bright colors and fun patterns. 

It is also located close to the ship's Adventure Ocean, 

The AquaTheater on Icon of the Seas was moved forward to the AquaDome neighborhood, highlighting the experience.

Dining and Venues

The Boardwalk is lined with several shops and eateries that match the retro theme.

The venues on the Boardwalk vary from ship-to-ship, but usually include:

• Johnny Rockets, a retro 50's diner
• Sugar Beach, the candy and ice cream shop
• Candy Beach, a shop just for candy
• Boardwalk Doghouse, hot dog stand
• Boardwalk Doughnuts, a donut shop
• Playmakers, sports bar and arcade
• Sabor Taqueria & Tequila Bar, modern Mexican restaurant and bar
• Cups & Scoops, an ice cream stand
• Starbucks, the specialty coffee shop
• Various retail shops

There aren't many common venues between Boardwalk and Surfside—the only similarity is Sugar Beach, a candy and ice cream shop located within both neighborhoods.

Because the AquaTheater is not located inside the Surfside neighborhood, the Icon-Class area has a lot more space for kid's play and water areas.

Guests will find multiple spaces perfect to entertain children of all ages. 

The Playscape features soft playground shapes. Splashaway Bay is a kid's splash pad, and Water's Edge Pool and Baby Bay are close by.

Surfside also has a designated arcade, which comes at an extra cost to play.

Icon of the Seas features the following venues within Surfside:

• Surfside Eatery, the family buffet 
• Surfside Bites, grab-and-go venue
• Sprinkles, an ice cream shop
• The Lemon Post, a cocktail and mocktail bar
• Pier 7, a specialty eatery
• Sugar Beach, the candy and ice cream shop
• Various retail shops

Read more: I ate at every new restaurant on Icon of the Seas and here's how I would rank them

Star of the Seas, the next iteration in the Icon Class, will also have the Surfside neighborhood, but its venues were not revealed at the time of this article.

Staterooms

Both neighborhoods have unique cabins that include a view facing the neighborhood, such as the Boardwalk View, Boardwalk View Balcony on the Boardwalk, and the Surfside Family View Balcony and Surfside Family View Interior in the Surfside neighborhood.

Both neighborhoods also have unique suite categories that feature a view of the area; The Boardwalk offers the AquaTheater Suite and Surfside has the Surfside Family Suite.

The Ultimate Family Townhouse, the Sunset Suite, the Sunset Corner Suite, the Sunset Junior Suite, on Icon of the Seas all have Surfside views as well.

Icon of the Seas' Surfside neighborhood also adds a new cabin category: infinite balcony staterooms.

Read more: Guide to Icon of the Seas cabins and suites

You need to know some key information before booking your European cruise.

While Caribbean cruises are quite the popular destination, Royal Caribbean cruises also offer great European destinations.

A Royal Caribbean cruise to Europe could include stops at England, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Corsica, Greece, or Croatia.

Whether you're looking forward to tasting French wine, touring classic Italian art museums, or winding down in the Aegean Sea, a European cruise offers unique and exciting sightseeing opportunities. 

But before you book your cruise, you should know some details unique to cruising in Europe.

From learning local phrases to the best time to cruise, we'll go over the most important things to know before taking a European cruise.

1. The best time to cruise is during the shoulder season

The summer season is the peak of cruising Europe. 

You'll find that a cruise to the region between May and September will be packed with fellow tourists.

Not only that, but the summer months can get extremely hot, forcing you to conduct tours and explorations in the scorching sun.

If you'd like to avoid hot weather and crammed crowds, you'll want to sail during the off-season.

The two shoulder seasons fall in the fall and spring: between April and May and between September and October.

Read more: The worst months to cruise to Europe

Booking a cruise during these months gets you a lower price and fewer crowds.

The weather also won't be as hot. 

However, if you're sensitive to the cold, you should know that the nights can get chilly in the fall and winter. Pack lots of layers.

2. Shore excursions will feel long and tiring

An often-shared piece of advice for European cruises is to expect a lot of walking. 

A good pair of walking shoes is essential!

Shore excursions can involve a lot of foot travel, whether you're walking the cobblestone streets of an ancient city, touring a museum, or exploring old architecture.

While on a European cruise, you'll quickly learn that the days feel long and tiring. 

As well as preparing for your health, you'll want to plan by not cramming too many tours into one port day.

Since European cruises often visit one or more vibrant, historical cities on each port day, it's easy to want to try everything: visit this museum, see this landmark, or try this specific restaurant.

Pad your schedule with lots of downtime. Don't force yourself to rush around on a port day.

If possible, I'd even recommend not purchasing shore excursions or tours for every port. 

If you have to, make sure they're not all in the early morning! Your body will need lots of time to rest.

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

3. Fly in to your cruise port at least two days early

Especially if you're flying in from another continent, I recommend arriving at your cruise port as early as possible.

With international flights, extra transit, and the potential for delays along the way, arriving at least a day early will ensure you don't miss your cruise.

Arriving early also gives you more time to recover from intense jetlag.

The jetlag from switching time zones can be one of the most challenging parts of a European cruise: it makes you exhausted all day long, and if you don't recover quickly, it could limit your cruise experience.

Additionally, arriving in your port city early gives you extra time to explore. Whether it's Athens, London, or Barcelona, you'll get some more days on the ground to discover a new, exciting destination.

4. Research your destinations beforehand

Before you set sail on your cruise, it's important to do research beforehand.

Because so many of the countries in Europe are quite old and have so much history, there are so many things to explore.

Don't assume that your tour guides will (or have the time to) tell you everything. 

Before your cruise, research each country you'll be visiting, as well as the specific destinations you're interested in.

For example, when I took a 7-night Mediterranean cruise that stopped at Naples, I checked out a library book about Italy and read up on Pompeii, since I'd be visiting the famous site on a shore excursion.

Investigating before your cruise gives you something to do on the plane, and provides helpful context. 

You'll better understand the sights you visit, as well as local customs and cultures.

Read more: I’ve been on 3 European cruises, and I see people making the same 12 mistakes: here’s how to avoid them

5. Learn the local language

Don't expect everyone in an European country to speak English. 

It's a common language, and of course, the mother tongue in England. However, Europe is a diverse continent, and other countries speak everything from Spanish to Greek and Italian.

I also recommend reading up on a few phrases in the languages local to the countries you'll be visiting.

Even if you're not good at learning new languages, learning just a few words or phrases can go a long way.

Pull up a short YouTube video, and teach yourself "hello" and "thank you."

Also learning to ask if something speaks English is a great way to extend politeness, instead of assuming.

When I was visiting Rome, Italy, I saw a fellow American cruiser walk up to a local bathroom attendant.

Without any greeting, the American jumped into her question in English, leaving the attendant staring at her blankly.

The bathroom attendant refused to respond, and the American had to walk away with her question unanswered.

I find that politely using the local language shows respect for the culture, even if your pronunciation is bad.

Not only will your attempt endear you to shopkeepers and restaurant owners, but you can also take your cruise as an opportunity to learn more.

Who knows, you might leave your European cruise inspired to learn a new language.

Welcome back to this week's comprehensive look at all the recent Royal Caribbean news. It was a big week for the cruise line, so let's dive in!

Royal Caribbean's infamous nine-month world cruise ended this week.

The viral 9-month journey onboard Serenade of the Seas came to an end with a party attended by Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley. 

Passengers and crew members returned to Miami, Florida, where it all began. The cruise line's first world cruise visited 60 countries across all seven continents.

Royal Caribbean News

• How much is a balcony room on a cruise?
• Does the size of a cruise ship really matter?
• The 5 smartest moves I made on my European cruise
• Twelve-year-old child dies after falling from balcony on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship
• Anthem of the Seas vs. Oasis of the Seas
• Greece is adding a new anti-cruise ship tourist tax
• Cruise door decorations ideas & what you need to know
• Royal Caribbean CEO shares when new beach clubs will open in Bahamas, Mexico, and South Pacific
• Royal Caribbean kids club guide
• Royal Caribbean cancels cruise reservations on one of its ships due to lifeboat shortage

New RCB Video: I went on the LEAST POPULAR Europe cruise

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—I went on the LEAST POPULAR Europe cruise—and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 544th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! 

Matt sailed a 7-night Anthem of the Seas cruise in Europe and is back to share his review. 

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.

Overtourism by cruise ships? Royal Caribbean CEO fights back

Cruise ship ports across Europe have been protesting overtourism, but Royal Caribbean's CEO thinks targeting the cruising industry is misinformed.

While he acknowledged certain concerns tourist areas have, he sought to highlight some of the underestimated benefits cruise ships bring to the tourism industry.

During a Q&A session onboard the Ultimate World Cruise, Bayley argued that "there are some incredibly positive attributes that come from our business." 

I work at Royal Caribbean's private island. Here are11 things that most cruisers don't know

The top two people that oversee Royal Caribbean's private island want you to know some secrets about Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The private island in the Bahamas is free for Royal Caribbean guests to access, so how can you make the most of the experience?

By taking advantage of their advice, you can save time and money while vising CocoCay.

I travel for work, here's the one thing that I do on the first day of every cruise

As a frequent traveler, Calista has learned how to make the most of her cruises.

Since embarkation day can be one of the most stressful and significant days of the sailing, she's developed a key tip to make embarkation day run smoothly.

Calista always does this one thing as soon as she gets onboard a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean's ships come in various sizes, but how important is the area of the cruise ship?

While the cruise line generally leans towards the larger side, there are significant differences between the ship classes.

Within Royal Caribbean's fleet, the smallest ships are the Vision and Radiance Classes, which carry around 2,400-2,700 passengers.

The medium ships are the Voyager Class; ships with a capacity for 3,800-4,200 passengers.

The bigger ships are the Freedom, Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Classes: mega-ships with a capacity for 4,500 up to 7,500 guests. 

So with over 28 vessels to choose from, how do you decide which ship size is best for you?

The short answer? Size matters when it comes to your cruise ship.

Here's how the size of your cruise ship can affect the entire sailing experience.

Bigger, older ships come with the cheapest price tag

Big cruise ships are popular, but if you can sail on one of the older big ships, the price can be more affordable than you think.

Let's take a lot at some example cruises.

A Western Caribbean Cruise on the Voyager-Class Explorer of the Seas will cost about $889 per person for 7 nights (interior cabin price, sailing out of Miami, Florida, on February 16, 2025).

However, an Icon of the Seas cruise around the same time jumps to $1,194 per person for 7 Nights in the Western Caribbean (sailing out of Miami, Florida, on February 15, 2025).

Read more: Icon of the Seas size comparison

It makes sense that the brand-new, hugely hyped, largest cruise ship in the world would have a more expensive cruise fare.

If we contrast this with a big yet older ship, we'll see some cheaper prices.

A 6-night Freedom of the Seas cruise out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida costs just $664 per person (interior cabin price, sailing on February 23, 2025).

The Freedom Class ship was first launched in 2006 and has the capacity for 4,515 guests.

Personalized service in a smaller ship community

If you're someone who enjoys personalized customer service, a smaller ship might be a great experience for you.

Smaller vessels mean fewer passengers for crew members to keep track of, and they can get to know you throughout a week-long sailing.

On a vessel with less than 3,000 passengers, you'll start to see familiar faces.

Whether it's your stateroom attendant, Main Dining Room wait staff, or the crew member passing out towels, you'll be able to recognize and get to know each other.

Read more: After sailing Royal Caribbean's mega ships, I tried a small ship and here's what I liked about it

Smaller ships tend to feel like a more tight-knit community, with both crew members and guests contributing to a comfortable environment.

However, one downside of a smaller ship is that it's harder to fade away into the crowds or to avoid a particularly annoying group of guests.

Endless entertainment on a large ship

Royal Caribbean mega-ships are renowned for their marvelous entertainment. From Broadway productions to stunning AquaTheater performances, guests have overwhelming options.

Read more: Royal Caribbean head of entertainment reveals how long it takes to create a new show for a cruise ship

The Oasis and Icon Classes, in particular, are packed with constant activities. 

A look at your Cruise Compass will reveal parties at the pool, craft activities, live musicians, game shows, famous comedians, musical productions, figure skating, and so much more.

One downside to this constant entertainment is that it can be hard to decide what to prioritize. Big ships offer endless shows and parties that you'll have to choose between.

For example, Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's latest Oasis Class ship, and "The World's Biggest Weekend," has been marketed as a non-stop party.

Smaller cruise ships visit more varied ports of call

Not every port has the capacity for a big cruise ship, so smaller ships have the benefit of visiting more ports of call.

If you value unique cruise itineraries and experiences, a small ship could have exactly what you're looking for.

They might have fewer activities onboard, but these vessels take you to more unique ports of call, where you can purchase unbelievable tours.

Royal Caribbean's Vision and Radiance Classes travel to exciting destinations, from Grand Bahama and Yucatan, Mexico to Belize and Colón, Panama.

The cruise line's Ultimate World Cruise, for example, took place on Serenade of the Seas, a 2,476-passenger Radiance Class vessel.

Read more: See how Royal Caribbean ships stack up by size (2024)

Smaller ships also don't use tender boats as frequently and have shorter lines for disembarkation.

Ample activities appeal to all ages

For those who enjoy a fast-paced cruise experience, a bigger ship will provide ample activities to enjoy.

Royal Caribbean's mega-ships have it all when it comes to activities onboard. The cruise line has developed a range of options, from rope courses to surf simulators.

Bigger groups, and those traveling with families of multiple generations, will find that a large vessel has something for everyone to try.

If you're looking for an adrenaline-packed cruise experience where you can zip line, ride water slides and dry slides, play mini-golf and arcade games, ice skate, play laser tag, sing karaoke, and gamble at the casino, all on one cruise ship, a mega-ship is the right choice.

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO explains why mega cruise ships are so popular 15 years after their inception

Comparing alone time vs. large crowds

If you're more introverted, or like getting a quiet space to yourself, choosing a ship can be difficult.

On the one hand, bigger ships often are packed with crowds, from lines for the elevator to limited seating by the pool.

But on the other hand, it's easier to find quiet spaces on a larger ship. 

Spaces like Central Park, the Library, the Outlook, and quiet bars provide the perfect opportunity to get away.

Overall, there's more space to put between yourself and your lovable but tiring travel buddies.

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you'll have to decide which is more important: quiet spaces where you can be alone, or calm public areas with fewer lines?

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Royal Caribbean's private island staff glean a ton of insider knowledge through working every day on the cruise line's island in The Bahamas.

During a webinar, Royal Caribbean Senior Director of Private Destinations, Neva Heaston, and Royal Caribbean Vice President of Private Destinations, Dotan Ben Horin, shared their top secrets for guests visiting the island.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island, is a destination just for cruisers on Royal Caribbean ships.

Guests can access the 125-acre island for no additional cost, and there's a lot to experience.

"We provide the perfect balance of thrill and chill," Neva Heaston said, citing the island's waterslides, beaches, pools, and beach games.

The island has something for everyone, so how can you make the most of it?

Here's what its top staff want you to know.

Read more: What to do at CocoCay? 18 things to try on your visit

You don't need to bring much off the ship

According to Ben Horin, one of the best things about Perfect Day at CocoCay is its comfort and simplicity for Royal Caribbean guests.

"It's just comfortable, simple and easy," he said.

You can leave your stateroom with just a towel and SeaPass card and be enjoying a gorgeous beach within 5 minutes.

Visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay doesn't require long security checks, entering a port, or the hassles of hailing a taxi.

"You can be on a gorgeous beach in the Bahamas with shade, with a chair, with a drink, and the only thing that you need to take with you is your slippers and a towel."

And if you do forget to bring a towel, water, or umbrella, those items are provided for free.

Get up early to make the most of your day

Heaston's top piece of advice for cruisers is to wake up early.

"I know it's so painful," she laughed, citing the late-night shows and parties that happen onboard. "But get up early, have your breakfast quickly, and get out to the island."

When your vessel stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the gangway will usually open around 8 or 9 A.M., but guests are free to exit and re-enter at any time.

However, Heaston recommends getting out onto the island as early as possible.

"You're going to have the whole island to yourself," she said.

You'll be able to find the best spots in the pool, to get onto the attractions first, and find perfect seating.

"It's so worth it just to get up a little bit early and to get the most out of your day."

Your beverage and WiFi package work on the island

Ben Horin wants Royal Caribbean cruisers to know that their beverage and WiFi packages will work just fine on CocoCay.

If you've purchased a drink package, whether that includes alcohol or just soda, you'll be able to use it at the bars and shacks on the island.

Simply show your SeaPass card the same way you would on the ship.

As for the WiFi package, if you have access to the VOOM Internet onboard the vessel, your device should connect automatically to the Internet on the island.

You don't have to worry about safety—lifeguards are everywhere

Visitors will be happy to know that there are 200 lifeguards employed at the private island.

Royal Caribbean takes guest safety seriously and has placed hundreds of crew members around the island to watch over playing children and swimming adults.

You'll see them standing guard at the pools, waterparks, and beaches.

Whether adults or children, guests don't have to feel worried about their own safety.

And as for other crew members, over 750 Royal Caribbean staff members live on the island.

It's all about the service, the safety that we want to have for our guests on board," Heaston said.

Try the coconut shrimp at the Hideaway Hut

Inside the adults-only party area Hideaway Beach, you'll find two casual fast-food places: The Hideaway Hut and Slice of Paradise.

Entry to the Hideaway includes access to these eateries.

One such eatery, the Hideaway Hut, is like an upgraded version of the Snack Shack, with extra dishes added to the base menu.

The venue features some tasty food, including great seafood dishes.

Heaston jumped to recommend guests try the coconut shrimp basket.

Read more: Your really dumb Perfect Day at CocoCay questions answered

Plan your day in advance

Another way to make the most of your time on Perfect Day at CocoCay is to plan your day in advance.

Ben Horin recommends guests—especially families with kids—plan their time on the island, the attractions they want to do, and where they want to spend the day.

Choose a home base, as well as the attractions that are a priority for you.

Although the island is small, there are a lot of amenities included. 

"You can experience the whole thing in one day," Ben Horin said, but he recommends a distinct plan to fit it all in.

Read more: 41 Things You Should Know About Perfect Day at CocoCay BEFORE You Go (2024)

You must try the mozzarella sticks 

The mozzarella sticks are a fan favorite on Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Royal Caribbean's management aren't immune to the obsessions.

"I have a small addiction, maybe a large addiction to the Snack Shack," Heaston said, "because of the mozzarella sticks. They are the best ever."

She described the warm, cheesy fried snacks as "full of love" and "deliciously gooey."

Ben Horin agreed with her addiction, saying the two often steal each other's sticks when they share a meal.

Visitors to the island must try mozzarella sticks at the Snack Shack.

Ask for the secret menu item at the Snack Shack

The Snack Shack also has a secret, off-the-menu dish you can ask for.

"If you want the secret chicken sandwich, go check it out at the Snack Shack," Heaston said.

You'll have to ask for the secret sandwich, but it's worth the extra effort.

You can top the crispy chicken sandwich with mozzarella sticks and marinara dipping sauce, and you'll end up with a tasty chicken parmesan sandwich.

Read more: 11 food favorites at CocoCay that never disappoint

You don’t have to spend a cent

Heaston explained that the majority of Perfect Day at CococCay’s amenities come free with the cruise fare.

Hospitality is key to the cruise line, so things like umbrellas, beach access, towels, wheelchairs and strollers, and buffets and snack shops are all complimentary.

"We've got some great children's amenities and attractions like Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill's Galley, and you do not have to go and pay for the waterpark to enjoy those things.”

You can also access the Oasis Lagoon, a massive pool with a swim-up bar, free of charge.

And that’s in addition to the beautiful beaches, tram service, lockers, and countless beach games.

“If you're into playing beach, pool, soccer, pickleball, or volleyball, all of those things are there for us,” Heaston said.

Renting a cabana will level up your experience

Both Ben Horin and Heaston recommended that guests rent a cabana to enhance their Perfect Day at CocoCay experience.

Private cabanas on Perfect Day at CocoCay come with a private cabana for use, complimentary water bottles, sofas and chairs, complimentary food delivery, floating beach mats, lockable storage, charging outlets, and concierge service.

Not only do they provide a private, luxurious experience, but they also come with a personal attendant.

Your cabana attendant is your guide to the island.

"They help you curate your time and give you those tips throughout the day," Heaston said. "It's like having your own buddy to tell you where to go and how to get things. And they're going to make sure that you feel special the entire time."

Plus, families with kids will appreciate that children can play on the sand right in front of the cabana.

"They basically [have] a private beach all for themselves to run around," Ben Horin said.

Ask staff for the hidden picture spots

One secret Heaston and Ben Horin want guests to know is how much work their staff puts into maintaining the landscaping and views on Perfect Day at Cococay.

Ben Horin said they rake the sand every morning so guests "feel like they are the first ones to touch the beach."

Heaston recommended that guests take lots of pictures, and take advantage of the beautiful views.

If you're someone who loves to take pictures, she suggests you ask team members where the best spots are for photos.

"We put a lot of work into [the landscaping]," she said. "So we're so proud and we're so happy that when we see [photos] online."

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Because I travel for work, I've learned tips to make each cruise more efficient.

I go on a cruise about once a month and I've learned that embarkation day can be the most overwhelming and stressful part of the cruise.

The hours that follow after you board the cruise ship are some of the most important ones of the sailing, setting the mood for the rest of your vacation.

My top recommendation is something I do every embarkation day, as soon as I finish going through security and boarding the ship.

Following this tip is a great way to set yourself up for a successful cruise—it ensures you'll never get lost onboard.

I explore the ship from bottom to top

Most of the time, the gangway opens up onto a lower-middle deck, such as deck 5 or 6.

As soon as I get onboard, I start by finding my muster station. 

As long as I've already completed the lessons on the app, I can quickly check and be finished.

It's important to do this step as soon as possible since the ship cannot leave until every guest has completed the muster drill.

As soon as this is done, I begin touring the ship from bottom to top. Skipping the decks that are just staterooms, I explore each passenger deck, looking inside the venues and taking pictures along the way.

This step is crucial to getting my cruise start on the right foot. 

By touring each deck, I remember what the area looks like, so I'll be able to return to it easily.

I'm able to quickly get a feel for the ship's layout, design, and energy.

As an added bonus, all Royal Caribbean ships have beautiful artwork, from sculptures to paintings and photography, that are on display around the ship. Doing a full exploration will allow you to notice each one and connect the dots on the themes of the exhibit.

Exploring the ship doesn't take as long as you'd expect it to, and you'll be surprised by how helpful it is.

Mapping out the ship helps me find events and venues faster

Touring the vessel on embarkation day makes my entire sailing more smooth.

I know where to find activities, events, and venues right away because I've already seen where they're located.

I love knowing my way around already, and blissfully passing those lost souls still studying ship maps.

Read more: 25 things you need to know for your first day on a cruise ship

This tip helps when it comes to navigating mega-ships with multiple neighborhoods, but don't skip this step on small ships, either!

I made the mistake of not fully touring Radiance of the Seas when I sailed on her, and I couldn't figure out where all the nightlife was happening.

My friend and I wandered the ship for a few days, wondering where all the guests and events were.

For an embarrassingly long time, we concluded that everyone was just going to bed early.

It turns out, we'd missed a key area on Deck 6 of Radiance of the Seas that hosts live music, nightclub events, evening karaoke, and Hyperlink events.

We ended up neglecting several days of fun activities and nightlife, all because we didn't fully explore the ship beforehand.

If it's after 1pm, I can tour my stateroom as well

Once the attendants are done cleaning and preparing, your stateroom will be opened around 1:00 or 2:00 P.M. 

If this coincides with your ship tour, it's a great opportunity to peek into your cabin and see how it looks.

By this time, you'll also be feeling tired of lugging your carry-on bags around (unless you purchase The Key, which includes hand delivery of your carry-on luggage).

You'll be able to head into your stateroom, set your bags down, and inspect the area.

When you first get inside, you should make sure everything is functioning properly. Take a look at the lights, air conditioning, TV, and toilet.

Read more: 30 Cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

You should also test your cabin's safe—since it will store your valuables it should be operating smoothly. 

If you have any additional requests, like separating the beds or needing a crib, now is the time to make them with your stateroom attendant.

If anything is broken, embarkation day is a good time to make maintenance requests, because the ship has extra maintenance crew members onboard.

End the tour with lunch and a drink

My favorite routine involves stopping at the Windjammer to grab something to eat.

Your embarkation day plans should be adjustable and easy-going, but you'll usually be onboard between 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M.

I usually find that I'm feeling peckish by the time I finish exploring the ship, no matter what time it is.

The Windjammer is a great option for embarkation day lunch because it's open into the late afternoon, and has such a wide selection of dishes. You can choose exactly what you want to eat and how heavy of a meal it is, from a full lunch to a light snack.

If you don't feel like dining at the Windjammer, other complimentary venues are usually open including Cafe Promenade, AquaMarket, Park Cafe, Cafe Latte-tudes, Sorrento's Pizza, or El Loco Fresh.

Specialty venues like Chops Grille, Johnny Rockets, Giovanni's Table, Jamie's Italian, Sabor, and Playmakers also serve meals during this time.

After eating, I'll head over to the pool deck (which is usually near the Windjammer, or just a deck away). 

I stop by a poolside bar to order a Lime and Coconut cocktail or a Mango Lava Flow, and then lounge in the sunshine while the ship begins to pull away from the harbor.

Read more: 30 cruise ship embarkation day do’s and don’ts