Royal Caribbean could be adding a new California homeport to its plans. 

Test loads for the upcoming West Coast deployment schedule to be released around February 17 reveal that Serenade of the Seas won't offer cruises out of Los Angeles. Instead, the 90,090 gross registered ton (GRT) ship will sail from San Diego, California. 

Royal Caribbean prepares for a new deployment with test loads, where they upload a few select sailings to their website. They aren't bookable, but they give passengers a preview of what to expect. 

Screenshots shared by Southern Dan on Royal Caribbean Blog's discussion board show Serenade offering a 7-night Mexican Riveria cruise on March 28, 2027, from San Diego. 

The test itinerary also reveals that Serenade will call at Laz Paz, Mexico, which is known for beautiful beaches teeming with marine life and a vibrant downtown with a 3-mile-long waterfront promenade.  

Cruises from San Diego aren't necessarily new. Royal Caribbean sometimes begins or ends Panama Canal voyages from the Southern California port. However, Royal doesn't offer regular sailings from San Diego. 

It's more commonly used by lines like Disney, Holland America, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian.

Other West Coast changes

Voyager of the Seas will supposedly replace Navigator as the year-round ship based in Los Angeles, though Royal Caribbean hasn't made an official announcement yet. 

The Ports America Los Angeles website schedule shows Voyager of the Seas arriving in California on October 5, 2026. 

Test loads seem to confirm Voyager's takeover with an 8-night cruise scheduled on Nov. 5, 2026, including an overnight stay in Cabo. 

Navigator of the Seas is on the schedule through Nov. 5, 2026. After that, the Voyager Class ship disappears from the manifest, whereas Voyager has departures listed through at least December 2026, along with Ovation of the Seas. 

Royal Caribbean already announced they're bringing Quantum Class ships to Los Angeles, with Ovation of the Seas offering regular voyages starting in June 2025. Quantum will join Ovation in October 2025. 

These cruise ships are larger than Voyager Class vessels and offer more modern amenities, including an enclosed SeaPlex, North Star observation capsule, and sky diving simulator. Plus, they're designed to operate in warm and cool climates. 

Effective October 2026, however, it appears Royal Caribbean will reduce to just one Quantum Class ship in Los Angeles, phasing out Quantum of the Seas.

Another test itinerary shows Ovation making a short 3-night cruise to Ensenada on October 16, 2026. 

Growing cruise market

After a decade-long hiatus from Los Angeles, Royal Caribbean's re-entry into the California market has proved to be worthwhile, with executives confirming that Navigator has performed "exceptionally well."

The itineraries to popular destinations in the Mexican Riveria have resonated with seasoned cruisers and newcomers who might not be interested in another typical Caribbean or Bahamian voyage. 

Plus, adding newer ships, like Ovation and Quantum of the Seas, will further strengthen Royal Caribbean’s position in the market. 

Upcoming deployments

There's a lot of exciting stuff forthcoming with Royal Caribbean's new deployments in the next few weeks. Already, they've announced their 2026 Alaska cruises, some of their 2026 European voyages, and Summer & Yearlong Caribbean Northeast cruises. 

Here's an updated list of the upcoming deployment schedule:

• Week of February 10: Europe 2.0
• Week of February 17: West Coast
• Week of February 24: Short Caribbean
• Week of March 3: Seasonal Caribbean
• Week of March 10: China
• Week of March 17: Singapore
• Week of June 2: Australia 

A piece of Royal Caribbean's early history is headed to the scrapyard. 

Royal Caribbean's former Song of America, which was once one of the largest cruise ships in the world, was retired in 2023 by Celestyal Cruises.

Song of America entered service for Royal Caribbean in 1982 as the cruise line's fourth ship. She was preceded by Sun Viking, Nordic Prince, and Song of Norway. 

The cruise ship initially offered Caribbean itineraries from Miami to Nassau, San Juan, and St. Thomas; however, she later added sailings from New York to Bermuda to expand the ship's appeal to a broader audience.

Read more: What happened to Royal Caribbean's first cruise ships?

Celestyal Cruises acquired the cruise ship in 2014, though she departed Royal Caribbean's fleet in 1999 after being sold to Sun Cruises. After a five-year stint as the MS Sunbird, she was once again sold in 2004 to Louis Cruises, operating under the name MS Thomson for eight years. 

In 2012, she was renamed Louis Olympia and began offering cruises out of Piraeus (Athens), Greece, before Louis Cruise Lines re-branded to become Celestyal Cruises in 2014.

Celestyal Olympia sailed for Celestyal Cruises for about a decade before Celestyal sold her to a flag of convenience company which renamed her Bella Fortuna. Celestyal replaced the 40+-year-old ship with the former AIDAaura.

Bella Fortuna's name was eventually shortened to Fortu. On January 22, she departed the United Arab Emirates with her status listed as "to be broken up," according to The Maritime Executive. 

She's en route to Alang, India, home to the world's largest shipbreaking yard.

Read more: Photos show dismantled cruises in a cruise ship graveyard

When Song of America launched, she was the third-largest passenger vessel at sea

She also featured many firsts for the cruise line, including Royal Caribbean's iconic Viking Crown Lounge which provided 360-degree views around the ship. 

It was also the first time Royal Caribbean had put staterooms toward the front of the ship and public spaces near the aft so that the cabins were further from the ship's noisy engines. 

Plus, Song of America had two swimming pools, which had never been done before on any Royal Caribbean ship! That seems unheard of today with vessels like Icon of the Seas that feature upward of seven pools for guests to enjoy. 

Song of America catapulted Royal Caribbean into a modern era of cruising

“Every innovative maritime feature, every one of ‘tomorrow’s’ cruise concepts, will be part of Song of America today" is what the first preview brochure for Song of America said. 

Following Song of America, Royal Caribbean's committee overseeing the construction of a new ship argued for building a vessel that would push the boundaries even further in terms of size. 

Thus, Sovereign of the Seas was born. With a passenger capacity of over 2,600 guests, she could handle more than double what Song of America could accommodate. 

And as we all know, Royal Caribbean ships have continued to become larger and more innovative. I suppose we should expect nothing less from an industry leader who had big dreams in the 1980s, starting with Song of America. 

Read more: 8 ways Royal Caribbean changed the cruise industry

By 2027, almost every Caribbean cruise will visit one of Royal Caribbean's beach clubs or private islands.

In fact, Royal Caribbean said 90% of Caribbean passengers will visit one of their private destinations in 2027.

The company plans to grow its portfolio of private destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas. The expansion will kick off with the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025. Additionally, a second private beach club in Cozumel, Mexico, is slated to open sometime in 2026. 

That's not all, either. Last year, Royal Caribbean Group announced Perfect Day Mexico in Costa Maya to compliment the wildly popular Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. 

"With the introduction of Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel in the second half of the year, we continue to differentiate in the Caribbean market with our incredible ships and private destinations driving very strong performance," said Naftali Holtz, Royal Caribbean Group's Chief Financial Officer, during RCG's Q4 earnings call on Tuesday, January 28.

"Over 70% of guests on these itineraries sailing with the Royal Caribbean Brand will visit a private destination this year, and that percentage will increase to 90% in 2027."

Other lines simply can't match Royal Caribbean's private island experience and innovative ships

It's hard to believe that it has been over one year since Icon of the Seas welcomed her first paying guests onboard. That's right: Icon officially set sail on her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024. 

Icon of the Seas redefined the average family cruise with amenities like the Category 6 Waterpark, AquaDome, Surfside Neighborhood, and more. 

Currently, Icon sails exclusively from Miami, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay weekly. This means that once the private destinations in Mexico are complete, guests will have three exclusive destinations to choose from on their cruise vacations. 

Star of the Seas will follow in Icon's footsteps, making her debut later this year and further expanding Royal Caribbean's fleet of innovative ships sailing to a range of private islands and beach clubs. 

"The greatest weekend in the history of cruising"

Additionally, Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas takes a unique approach to cruising, offering short voyages on a brand-new ship to Nassau and CocoCay. 

In essence, it's designed to draw in new cruisers by showcasing the best of what Royal Caribbean has to offer, whether immersive dining experiences or the company's private island. 

When the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opens in December, Utopia's experience will be even more valuable because guests will finally have a new way to explore Nassau, a less-than-desirable destination that ranks in the bottom 10% of cruise ports. 

"It's going to be a great guest experience. [Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is] also incredibly complimentary with CocoCay because we'll have a lot of short product that goes to Perfect Day on one day, and the next day it'll be in the beach club, so it's like the greatest weekend in the history of cruising," said Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley during RCG's Q4 earnings call. 

Celebrity Cruises adding to the hype

Perfect Day at CocoCay's $250 million renovation has proved to be successful. The demand for the private island is so high that RCG began to deploy Celebrity ships to CocoCay. 

Traditionally, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity attract different clientele, with Celebrity focused on providing an upscale experience. In comparison, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are packed with jaw-dropping amenities like FlowRider surf simulators, record-breaking waterparks, and more. 

With Celebrity now calling at CocoCay, guests who want to enjoy the premium experience while also visiting the award-winning private island can do so. 

Tickets for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island go on sale in April

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is one of the most anticipated additions to Royal Caribbean's portfolio. Details about the new experience have been revealed over the past few months; however, during the Q4 earnings call, Bayley said guests can expect tickets to finally go on sale in April. 

"We'll be launching the product into the market, opening for sale in April, so we'll be able to talk about our pricing in about two months time," he remarked. 

Though the pricing hasn't been revealed yet, we do know that the beach club is all-inclusive, meaning that everything from the first water taxi ride to food and drinks is included. Other amenities include at least two food halls, three Snack Shack locations, a zero-entry pool, the world's largest swim-up bar, and plenty of beach space. 

Bailey added, "Our expectation is in the first full year of the operation of the beach club, we'll have approximately 1 million guests going into the beach club for the experience." Compartively, Royal Caribbean expects around 3.5 million passengers to visit CocoCay in 2025. 

Perfect Day Mexico is expected to be a smash hit

Perfect Day Mexico and the Royal Beach Club Cozumel are expected to become a major draw for passengers cruising from Galveston, Texas. 

The combination of easy access and new amenities will expand Royal's presence in the Western Caribbean even further, with Royal Caribbean thinking that the passenger volume will eventually surpass CocoCay! 

"We think that, ultimately, the volume that we will take to Perfect Day Mexico will far exceed what we're taking into CocoCay," said Bayley. 

More sailings through all of February have had their visits to San Juan, Puerto Rico replaced with other plans.

Royal Caribbean canceled another month of visits to Puerto Rico after pier repairs couldn't be completed in January. 

Oasis Class ships haven't called at San Juan since November 2024 because of the ongoing problem with Pier 3-West. Instead, the massive vessels have been routed to other ports. 

Note that the issue hasn't impacted all cruise lines because San Juan has more than one pier for cruise ships. Oasis Class ships are some of the largest in the world, measuring well over 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT). In comparison, Carnival Venezia, which successfully docked in Puerto Rico on Thursday, January 23, comes in at just 135,225 GRT. 

Last week, local media outlet El Vocero reported that the Coast Guard was working on repair efforts, indicating the pier could be fixed and ready to safely welcome guests later in January. The news relieved many who were anxiously awaiting to see whether San Juan would remain on their itineraries. 

However, guests aboard the February 23 cruise on Symphony of the Seas received an email stating they'll skip their scheduled visit to San Juan. 

"Due to ongoing construction at the pier in San Juan, the port authority has advised us that the port will not be ready in time for our visit," the notice reads.

"You will now get to explore the beautiful Labdadee, Haiti. Although we need to skip our visit to Phillipsburg, St. Maarten, you will get the enjoy the charming Falmouth, Jamaica...Thank you for your understanding. We're excited to share these wonderful destinations with you."

Other impacted voyages include the February 9 and February 16 sailings. 

The February 2 cruise remains unchanged because San Juan isn't on the Eastern Caribbean itinerary. The 7-night cruise is scheduled to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. 

Labadee is one of Royal Caribbean's private destinations

Though not a private island like Perfect Day at CocoCay, the remote area is only available to Royal Caribbean guests. The private beach area is walled off on a peninsula in northern Haiti. It is located 130 miles north of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

Visits were suspended last year due to civil unrest. However, Royal Caribbean resumed sailings to Labadee in October 2024 after a 7-month hiatus and was met with criticism. 

"The high, hill positions would make it easy to fire down on people at Labadee; it would be difficult to defend for Royal’s security forces," commented David on a Royal Caribbean Blog post.

"As far as the problems being only in Port au Prince, that’s what the media is reporting. No one really knows if it is safe in Cap-Haitian. And Cap-Haitien is not that far [from] Labadee, so that = a no-go for me."

Amy added, "There's no way that Royal Caribbean can repel an attack and protect passengers visiting the island or the cruise ship should it happen. People can be kidnapped, [raped, tortured], taken hostage, and killed."

"It's extremely irresponsible for any cruise line to continue to visit Labadee, Haiti falsely thinking for some reason, that Labadee is completely insulated from the extreme violence in the country, just on the other side of the fence!"

Disappointed guests

It's important to be open to change on a cruise vacation. Weather, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances can disrupt itineraries. That, however, doesn't mean you can't be disappointed. 

"These are major downgrades of ports…both Falmouth and Nassau suck and I tried to avoid them when initially booking the cruise," wrote wormy1996 on Reddit. 

"[I'm] more upset about St. Maarten, not sure why they are skipping it. I like Labadee but Nassau and Falmouth are both terrible options."

AnswerGuy301 added, "'Charming' Falmouth, Jamaica?! Ha! It’s just a mall in the middle of nowhere."

"This happened [to] us on Symphony over New Year’s. Labadee is fine, but yes, the others are major downgrades. Unfortunate, but we still had a great time," said Educational_Sky_1136.

Captain Johnny Faevelen announced his retirement from Royal Caribbean International. 

He began his career with the cruise giant in 1975 as an Ordinary Sailor, Abalbody Seaman, and Quarter Master, according to Faevelen's LinkedIn profile. 

Since then, he's worked as a Captain on ships ranging from one of the first modern purpose-built cruise ships, Nordic Prince, to Monarch of the Seas; Voyager of the Seas; Allure of the Seas; Harmony of the Seas; and Symphony of the Seas, just to name a few.  

"50 years has [passed], and it’s time to say [goodbye] to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. 😢 It is with mixed feelings I have handed in my resignation," reads Captain Faevelen's Facebook post. 

"I have been in the thinking box for the last months, 😵‍💫 and come to the conclusion that after 50 amazing years working for such a fantastic company, it’s time to start a new career;🏆 As of January 26.2025 I will start...a new 'job'."

He plans on being "100%" present with his family, including his wife Sissel, two children Erlend and Eirin, and four—soon to be five—grandchildren ranging in ages from newborn to 10 years old. 

"I have met and worked with so...many wonderful people in my career, no one mentioned - no one forgotten. You know who you are 💞 Thank you all for [having] been a part of my life for 50 years. 🥳," he adds. 

He began working with the company in 1975 when he was just 20 years old

Captain Faevelen joined the Song of Norway as an Ordinary Seaman. 

The Song of Norway was the first cruise ship built for Royal Caribbean International and launched in 1970. She initially had a gross registered tonnage of around 18,000. 

However, the demand for cruising was so high that Royal Caribbean lengthened the vessel in 1978, increasing her GRT to 23,000.

Time as a 2nd Officer

Eventually, Captain Faevelen had to stray from the Royal Caribbean brand to gain experience to be considered for further promotion. 

"[This] is me doing celestial navigation...when I was a 2nd. Officer for the first time onboard Skauboard," he explains.

Royal Caribbean didn't have 2nd Officers, so Captain Faevelen sailed on cargo ships to gain the necessary experience and qualifications. 

The work paid off because he became a Captain in 1994

It took the accomplished sailor nearly 20 years to finally be promoted to Captain. 

His first contract was aboard the Nordic Prince in 1994. He didn't just cruise to the Caribbean; he was tasked with sailing through Alaska's icy waters. 

Ending as Captain of one of the world's largest cruise ships

Captain Faevelen's LinkedIn reveals that he's been the Master of Oasis Class ships since 2010 when he became Allure of the Seas' Captain. Since then, he's also been the Captain of Harmony and Symphony of the Seas. 

He's ending his 50-year stint as Symphony of the Seas' Captain. Symphony is currently the 4th largest cruise ship in the world behind Icon, Utopia, and Wonder of the Seas. 

Read more: Take a look inside a cruise ship captain's living quarters

Known for his flamboyant style

Captain Faevelen wasn't your average cruise ship Captain. 

While he is passionate about the sea and the well-being of passengers and crew members, he's also a motorcycle enthusiast and proud Parrot owner. 

Not only that but, as a Captain, he had the privilege of giving away and marrying his daughter on a cruise ship. 

Unfortunately, Captain Faevelen was diagnosed with Melanoma and shared tidbits of his journey on social media. 

"Back again at Kristiansand Cancer Center for my 5th. of 12 Immune Therapy treatments, to prevent further development of melanoma cancer. All good and...I’m in the best hands🥰 ," he wrote on X.

However, at the beginning of 2024, he optimistically shared that he finished his last immune therapy to prevent the cancer cells from returning: "A full PET scan remains, and then I'm ready for whatever 2024 brings!" 

Fond farewell

Sometimes, the crew is just as important as the ship, and it's safe to say that Captain Faevelen was one of the most popular Captains sailing for Royal Caribbean. 

"Best Captain ever on the high seas , you will surely be missed , good luck and enjoy the future with your family 🥰," commented Tracey Ann Lemon on Faevelen's Facebook post. 

Ken Muskat added, "Congratulations to you Captain Johnny. What an incredible career and it was a pleasure getting to know you from my time at Royal. Wishing you the best in your role as 100% family man!"

Millions of people will take a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025, and there are important tips to have a great vacation this year!

2025 is set to be a big year for Royal Caribbean with the launch of their second Icon Class ship, finally updating Allure of the Seas, and unveiling a new exclusive beach club experience in Nassau.

Whether you’re a devout Royal Caribbean cruiser or new to the brand, there are some important do’s and don’ts to consider when planning your cruise in 2025 to help you maximize your time onboard and minimize any pre-vacation stress.

As in previous years, you'll want to follow timeless cruise tips, such as pre-purchasing cruise add-ons, arriving the night before your ship is scheduled to depart, and repricing your cruise until final payment.

Here's our list of the best 25 do's and don'ts for your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025.

DO expect higher prices

You should expect higher prices for a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025, and that's because of how red hot demand is for this type of vacation.

In looking at Royal Caribbean Group's quarterly results, customers are consistently paying more for cruises and booking them in higher numbers. As a result, Royal Caribbean Group executives plan for the higher pricing trend to continue into 2025 and beyond. 

While fares are higher, you can take an affordable vacation by staying in interior staterooms, sticking to complimentary dining, and cruising during the off-season.  

What this means is 2025 isn't the year of waiting for a price drop.

DO book your Royal Caribbean cruise through a travel agent

Travel agents are valuable resources for even the most seasoned cruisers because they act as experts for all things Royal Caribbean. Whether you can't decide between an itinerary, want advice on a cabin, or have some questions about the complimentary activities, you'll benefit from utilizing a travel agent when booking your 2025 Royal Caribbean cruise. 

Travel agents also have access to exclusive deals not available when booking directly with the cruise line, which means they'll save you time when planning your cruise and likely help you save money!

If you booked a cruise onboard at NextCruise, you can transfer your reservation to your travel agent once home. This lets you take advantage of the onboard booking bonus and the perks of an agent! 

DON’T fly into your embarkation city the day your cruise departs

One of the riskiest things you can do when making pre-cruise arrangements is booking your flight for the same day your ship departs. 

An unexpected flight delay or cancellation could cause you to miss your long-awaited cruise, and you might not have the opportunity to meet up with it at a later port of call. Even if you do, flying to the next port at the last minute will be expensive and stressful. 

To be safe, you should always fly into your cruise port at least the night before. Even if you think a 6:00am departure will arrive early enough, consider the time it takes to deplane, collect your luggage, and get to the port. Traffic delays are just as unpredictable as airfare!

DO purchase travel insurance

Speaking of missing cruise ships, travel insurance is crucial regardless of whether you're going on a 3-night Bahamas voyage or a 14-night transatlantic sailing. 

A good policy will cover things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay coverage, baggage delays, emergency medical coverage, onboard medical expenses, and more. You don't want to be stuck with a hefty bill for onboard medical services because you neglected to purchase insurance. 

If you're a frequent traveler, consider an annual policy. It's easier and more cost-effective than purchasing insurance directly through Royal Caribbean for each sailing. Plus, it'll cover other land-based trips.

Read more: Cruise travel insurance and why you need it

DON’T forget to purchase add-ons through the Cruise Planner

Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner is the best place to begin planning your vacation. This is where you'll find cruise line-sponsored shore excursions, drink and Wi-Fi packages, specialty restaurants, and more.

You'll often save money by pre-purchasing your add-ons, rather than waiting until you're onboard. Once on the ship, you cannot take advantage of Royal Caribbean's pre-cruise sales, which can help save hundreds of dollars on everything from drink packages to excursions. 

Plus, you will have the most available options by making all your reservations in advance. It's not uncommon for shore excursions and specialty restaurants to sell out ahead of time. 

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner site

DON’T immediately book the cheapest stateroom

Inside cabins offer the best deal but are not the right choice for all travelers. These windowless rooms are typically the smallest onboard. 

If you're sailing on a ship like Utopia or Icon of the Seas, you might assume you’ll spend little time in your cabin. However, even if not in the room often, the cost of a balcony is still worth it for some because of the extra living space.

Moreover, the most affordable cruise fares are often on older ships, such as Enchantment of the Seas. The lack of amenities on older vessels can be disappointing to some. If you're looking forward to trying the FlowRider or ice skating at sea, avoid older Royal Caribbean ships. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin guide

DO take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s app 

Before arriving at the terminal, download Royal Caribbean's mobile app. 

It'll be your lifeline onboard, with everything from the e-muster drill to the daily schedule and your onboard statement available at your fingertips. 

Additionally, you can chat with other guests, book specialty restaurants, browse photos, and check out the rotating Main Dining Room menus whether you're relaxing in your cabin or moving about the ship.

DON’T expect your ship to be empty

Royal Caribbean ships are some of the most sought-after at sea, so it's not surprising to learn that a 2023 report revealed Royal Caribbean ships sailed at 102.1% capacity during the first quarter of the year. 

In fact, it's common for cruise ships to sail above capacity between 103% and 107%, as some cabins can accommodate three, four, five, and six guests.

Though crowds are inevitable on cruise ships, venues are designed to comfortably accommodate many guests at once. Activities are also strategically offered to disperse passengers, keeping them active around the ship.  

DO choose the right dining time

Royal Caribbean offers two dining options for dinner in the Main Dining Room: traditional and My Time Dining. If you select My Time, you are responsible for making your own dining reservations for each night of the cruise, whereas with traditional dining, you'll eat at the same time each night. You'll also have the same wait staff. 

Choosing the wrong dining time or preference can be a buzzkill. If, for example, you're used to eating around 6:00pm each day, you likely will not enjoy having dinner around 8:00pm. Likewise, if you choose My Time Dining but forget to make reservations for your preferred dining time, you might have to wait for an available table. 

Stop by the Main Dining Room to confirm your dining situation on embarkation day. If you choose the traditional seating, you can also look at your assigned table to see if it meets your needs and preferences. 

DON’T forget to check your travel documentation ahead of time

Suppose you're sailing on a round-trip cruise from Miami to the Bahamas. In that case, you can technically board with a government-issued photo I.D. and proof of citizenship, such as a driver's license and birth certificate or certificate of naturalization (if you're a U.S. citizen). 

However, passports are required for specific sailings, such as voyages from Barcelona or one-way cruises that depart from U.S. ports, including Los Angeles or Tampa. 

As soon as you book your cruise, locate your travel documentation. It's best to know when your passport expires ahead of time in case you must renew it. Passports must be valid for at least six months after your cruise's end date! For example, if you're going on a cruise in May 2025, your passport's expiration date cannot be before November 2025.

Read more: Can I cruise without a passport?

DO expect ports to be busier

In mid-2023, Nassau opened the first phase of its port expansion, which increased capacity to 10,000 guests with berths for six ships per day, including three Oasis or Icon Class vessels.

The expansion was a major success, with the popular Bahamas port reporting a record-breaking 5.6 million cruise guests in 2024. Nassau hasn't finished the project, either. They're planning on adding a multi-million dollar waterpark inside the secured port. 

It was also a record year for Juneau, Alaska. The state's capital shared that they welcomed 1.68 million cruise passengers in 2024, up from 1.64 million in 2023. In short, more people are cruising than ever before, and this is evident in port. 

DON’T be surprised by policy changes

Royal Caribbean implemented various policy charges in 2024, including no longer allowing guests to take unopened beer cans to their staterooms and increasing the daily gratuity amount. 

Looking back at these changes and those that occurred in 2023, additional policies may be added, changed, or removed altogether in 2025. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean changes policy on how it serves beverages

DO understand how Royal Caribbean’s gratuities work

As of November 2024, the gratuity rate for Royal Caribbean cruises is $18.50 per person, per day for standard cabins (Junior Suites and below) and $21.00 per person, per day for suites. 

This means a family of four in a standard stateroom on a 7-night cruise can expect to pay an extra $518 for the week. The same family would pay $588 in gratuities if cruising in a suite. 

You have two options when it comes to paying them. First, you can opt to pre-pay them before your cruise. This can be done when booking or by calling Royal Caribbean/your travel agent after placing your deposit. Alternatively, you can have them charged to your onboard account and settle the balance before disembarkation. 

DON’T assume bigger is better

Icon of the Seas finally entered service in 2024 as the largest cruise ship at sea. For over a decade, the title was held by Oasis Class ships. However, the new class of ship redefined the mega-cruise experience with a recording-breaking water park, brand-new neighborhoods, dining experiences, shows, and more. 

Utopia of the Seas also joined Royal Caribbean's fleet as the second-largest cruise ship. The new Oasis Class ship is packed with familiar amenities and new experiences, making her a perfect blend of innovation and tradition. 

That being said, bigger isn’t always better. Some cruisers prefer Royal Caribbean’s smaller ships, which can access more unique ports of call and offer a more intimate onboard experience. For example, while brand-new, Utopia of the Seas only sails on 3- and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas. If you've already visited Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, you may wish to cruise on an older vessel and visit new destinations. 

Read more: 7 Best Royal Caribbean cruise destinations you can visit

DO complete your muster drill

You must complete Royal Caribbean's muster drill on embarkation day even if you've sailed with the company before. Passengers who fail to complete the required safety drill will be hunted down by crew members. The drill is mandatory to ensure all sailing guests are familiar with emergency procedures. 

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean has made it easier to complete the muster drill. Instead of sitting through a lengthy in-person drill, passengers watch a few short videos on the mobile app or stateroom television. Then, they visit their assigned muster station. 

Before sailing away, the ship's Captain and Cruise Director will give a few more announcements over the PA system and sound the emergency alarm. However, nobody is required to report to their muster station at that time. 

DON’T be afraid to status match with Celebrity Cruises

Royal Caribbean Group announced a new Status Match Program in 2024 to enhance the experience for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. This program offers a new solution to loyal Royal Caribbean cruisers who were worried about losing valuable perks of the highest Crown & Anchor Society tiers. 

Now, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club members can match into the corresponding tier across all three brands. For example, Pinnacle Club members can now hold Zenith status with Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club and vice versa. Similarly, Diamond Plus cruisers can sail as Elite Plus members with Celebrity.

Though the benefits aren't identical as each line has its own perks, the Status Match Program guarantees that loyal cruisers still receive similar high-level privileges. 

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's new loyalty match program

DO complete online check-in as soon as it opens

45 days before your cruise, you can complete the first steps of Royal Caribbean's check-in process. The online portion requires you to input your travel documentation and credit card information, as well as select an arrival time at the terminal.

We recommend writing the date your check-in opens on your calendar to ensure you can snag the ideal arrival time for your party. The earliest times tend to go quickly, so if you want to be one of the first onboard, you won't want to forget this important date!

DON’T wait until the last minute to book airfare

Don't wait too long to book your airfare unless going on a last-minute cruise. Otherwise, you could pay hundreds of dollars more for the same flight that was cheaper a few months or even weeks prior. 

Start researching flights as soon as you've placed your deposit. Securing your ticket early ensures you lock in a better price, as airfares tend to rise as the departure date approaches. 

Plus, if you're hoping to use airline miles to reduce your out-of-pocket cost, airlines typically limit how many reward seats are available on each flight. 

DO check the price of your cruise ahead of final payment

Whether you want to cruise for as little as possible or have more money allocated for add-ons, nothing feels better than finding a great rate for your cruise fare! 

In the months leading up to your cruise, frequently re-price your sailing. If you notice the price has dropped, contact Royal Caribbean or your travel agent to lock in the lower rate. It can only be done before the final payment date. 

NOTE: this only applies to residents of certain countries, such as the United States and Canada. 

DON’T smuggle prohibited items onboard

Packing for a cruise is different than packing for a land vacation. Since you won't be minutes from your local drugstore, you must have all your essentials, from over-the-counter medications to toiletries and sunscreen. However, there are certain items you can't bring on board. 

For example, irons and steamers are banned from cruise ships because of the fire hazard they pose. They also recently added multi-outlet extenders to its prohibited item list. 

Similarly, Royal Caribbean doesn't allow marijuana on its fleet even if it's prescribed for medicinal purposes. You could be kicked off or denied boarding if you bring something illegal onboard. 

Read more: What can you not bring on a cruise

DO step outside your comfort zone

Have you cruised to the Caribbean countless times? Consider embarking on a new itinerary to Alaska, Europe, or the South Pacific! Because of Royal Caribbean's diverse range of destinations, you can cruise all over the world while receiving the same service and benefits. 

You can also step outside your comfort zone in familiar ports of call. For example, if you've called at St. Maarten before but never visited the famous Maho Beach, your upcoming Caribbean cruise could be the perfect opportunity to watch planes soar above your head as they land. 

Or maybe you'd like to try something new onboard, such as an art auction, craft workshop, all-access tour, or fitness class. 

Read more: I Tried Doing Every Activity on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas

DON’T wait until you’re home to resolve onboard issues

Don't wait until you are home to contact Royal Caribbean regarding discrepancies on your onboard statement. Instead, visit Guest Services while on your cruise. 

There are crew members onboard to handle various situations and ensure everything meets your expectations. Do not hesitate to speak out if you think something should be improved, such as the service in the Main Dining Room or the upkeep of your cabin. 

If you keep problems to yourself, you can't expect them to be resolved during your vacation. 

DO remain flexible

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean cannot control the weather. Sometimes, the ship's crew must cancel a port of call to keep everyone onboard safe. Inclement weather could also cause shows to be canceled. 

In other cases, you could find your favorite specialty restaurant or must-do excursion fully booked. Regardless of the issue, it's important to remain flexible when booking a cruise and make the most of your time onboard. 

For example, if you miss a port because of bad weather, consider splurging on a spa treatment to make the otherwise disappointing day more memorable. 

DON’T forget to leave your worries behind as you set sail

No matter what is going on when you board the ship, try your best to leave those worries behind. Vacation is your time to relax and recharge. Being present in the moment can help you enjoy all the experiences onboard.

Watch the horizon disappear as you sip on the first cocktail of your cruise. Afterward, venture to the Main Dining Room for a three-course meal knowing you don't have to clean any dishes afterward! 

Parents also don't have to worry about entertaining their children. While your kids are having a blast at Adventure Ocean, you can fully immerse yourself into a vacation mindset. 

DON'T overlook what’s new for Royal Caribbean in 2025

In addition to Star of the Seas joining the fleet, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will finally open in Nassau. 

This new all-inclusive beach club is not included in the cost of your cruise fare; however, it promises an exclusive retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Nassau. Guests will enjoy private pools, beaches, bars, restaurants, cabanas, and more. 

Allure of the Seas is also set to receive a major renovation. The $100 million-plus Royal Amplification will add new dining venues, activities, and more to the beloved Oasis Class ship. The upgraded vessel will debut in Europe in spring 2025. 

Royal Caribbean offers some of its best loyalty benefits when you reach Diamond level, and one passenger got there as fast as possible.

Crown & Anchor Society rewards loyal cruisers with perks like free drinks, exclusive lounge access, Casino Royale FreePlay, laundry discounts, and more. However, the true benefits start once you've reached Diamond status. 

To become a Diamond Crown & Anchor member, you must accumulate 80 cruise points. Typically, guests receive one cruise point per night, meaning if you take a 7-night cruise in a standard cabin (i.e., interior, ocean view, or balcony), you'll get 7 cruise points. 

However, cruisers in suites and traveling solo get two cruise points per night, so they'd get 14 points for a 7-night cruise. Similarly, a Royal Caribbean passenger on a 3-night cruise in a Grand Suite would receive 6 cruise points. 

Considering you need 80 cruise points to reach Diamond status, it takes years for the average cruiser to climb to the fourth tier of the Crown & Anchor Society. 

To achieve this, you’d need to complete 12 weeklong cruises in a standard cabin or 6 in a suite. Alternatively, you’d have to take 20 4-night Royal Caribbean voyages if you prefer shorter cruises. 

Recently, one cruiser shared how they went from a Gold to Diamond C&A member in just one month. Shared to the r/royalcaribbean Reddit thread, macacofreco explained how he managed to fast-track his way to Diamond status by booking back-to-back cruises sailing various routes. 

He started his month-long journey with 21 cruise points. By the end, he had reached Diamond status, accumulating a total of 81 cruise points.

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

Delayed transatlantic cruise 

macacofreco received four free C&A points due to the delay of his transatlantic cruise, which resulted in a refund for two missed days. In addition, four ports of call were canceled during the journey. 

He got 26 cruise points for the 13-night transatlantic cruise on Adventure of the Seas. The sailing departed from Barcelona, Spain, and arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 7. 

Despite not being on board for the entire 13 nights, the points he earned for the sailing helped him reach the highly coveted Diamond tier. Otherwise, he would have been three points short after his final cruise in 2024. 

Four ships from four different classes

Following Voyager of the Seas, macacofreco boarded Oasis of the Seas in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise, calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Labadee, Haiti. He earned 12 cruise points during this sailing. 

After disembarking from Oasis, macacofreco remained in Fort Lauderdale overnight awaiting another 6-night Western Caribbean cruise on Freedom of the Seas. While he returned to Jamaica and Haiti, he also visited Grand Cayman, earning an extra 12 cruise points.

Finally, the determined cruiser spent Christmas aboard Grandeur of the Seas, a Vision Class ship that launched in 1996. For the 5-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to Haiti and Grand Bahama Island, he accumulated 10 more cruise points. He noted that he thought Grandeur should be retired. 

Read more: 4 lesser-known perks of Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Program

The average cost was $160 per day

There are two ways to earn more than one cruise point per sailing. The first is to cruise solo. Because you're paying double occupancy, Royal Caribbean rewards you with two points per night. 

The second is to book a suite. The category doesn't make a difference. In other words, if you book a Star Class suite, you'll receive the same two points per night as passengers staying in Sky Class cabins. 

To climb the ranks as quickly and affordably as possible, macacofreco sailed by himself in the cheapest cabin available, nothing that he had a window stateroom on two sailings. 

Because he ascended ranks during his month-long journey, he had to call the Crown & Anchor Society support team to credit the points to his account so he could benefit from Platinum and Emerald perks while on board. 

"I had to contact [the] C&A deck to upgrade me twice because the points [take] a week to be credited automatically, and they did it," he wrote.

"You might also need to contact [the casino] host to get the extra free play credits after the upgrade."

macacofreco also talked about The Key, stating he'd only purchase the VIP package again if he were to get internet. He added that it's only worth the extra cost if you appreciate the exclusive FlowRider session. 

The Key program includes priority terminal access during designated arrival times, carry-on bag drop off with delivery to your cabin, welcome lunch with an exclusive menu, access to fast lane at onboard events, private FlowRider time, priority departure at tender ports, dedicated seating for shows in select venues, VOOM Surf & Stream internet for one device, and choice departure and á la carte breakfast on disembarkation day, 

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's The Key after hearing lots of negative reviews

Poor weather in November and December

Unfortunately, while macacofreco succeeded in reaching Diamond status in just one month, his journey was not without its challenges. 

"Many activities were canceled...due to bad weather," he explained. If the activity wasn't canceled, it was less enjoyable because of the inclement weather. 

"I would say the quantum class is the best option for [off-season] cruise[s] such as transatlantic, if you are an active [cruiser]," he added. 

Read more: Second cruise ship slams into Atlantic storm causing damage

Several passengers are suing Royal Caribbean after one of the company's former crew members was convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison for placing hidden cameras in guests' staterooms and secretly recording young children. 

Aronfeld Trial Lawyers filed the 30-page lawsuit in the U.S. Southern District of Florida in Miami on Thursday on behalf of 12 U.S. plaintiffs, as reported by CBS News. 

Arvin Joseph Mirasol, a cabin steward from the Philippines, was arrested in March after a passenger onboard Symphony of the Seas reported finding a concealed camera in their bathroom. The device was discovered when the guest reached under the sink to grab toilet paper. 

He was arrested when the ship returned to Port Everglades on March 3, 2024. Mirasol's electronics were seized, and authorities uncovered videos of child pornography dating back to Dec. 2023. 

In addition to the recordings, he would hide under guests' beds while they were in the shower. He also claimed to pleasure himself while watching videos during a post-Miranda interview, adding he "wants to control it...but can't."

Mirasol was convicted in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in August, with U.S. District Judge Melissa Damian sentencing him to 30 years in prison. He also faces up to 15 charges of video voyeurism in Broward Circuit Court.

"The fact that many of the victims we represent still do not know if and how their images have been used or circulated is incredibly disturbing. Some of the plaintiffs are children - and once an image is on the internet it is there forever," said the plaintiffs' attorney Spencer Aronfeld in a news release.

Read more: Royal Caribbean crew member accused of hiding cameras to spy on guests

"We hope that RCCL will take full responsibility for the heinous and reprehensible conduct of its crewmember. And we hope that this lawsuit will motivate RCCL and the other major cruise lines to spend more effort screening their crewmembers so that this type of assault never happens again."

The law firm added that the plaintiffs have suffered "physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental and nervous disorders." 

The permanent and ongoing nature of the injuries has caused lasting harm. As a result, the plaintiffs seek a judgment for all damages allowable under the law, including punitive damages. 

Not the first lawsuit

In October, a Royal Caribbean guest, identified as Jane Doe, filed a class action lawsuit alleging that she was filmed by a hidden camera in her stateroom bathroom. 

The lawsuit accuses Mirasol of recording Doe "while undressed and engaged in private activities," and uploading images of Doe to the internet.

“Upon information and belief, Mirasol transmitted and/or uploaded images of the Plaintiff while undressed and engaging in private activities, to third parties and/or to the world wide web, including, but not limited to, the dark web, without Plaintiff’s prior knowledge or consent,” the complaint states. 

The lawsuit holds Royal Caribbean responsible for failing to provide sufficient security, training, or supervision to prevent sexual assaults. Additionally, it claims the cruise line didn't warn guests about the risk of such crimes and failed to notify passengers who stayed in staterooms serviced by Mirasol. 

The lawsuit suggests that as many as 960 passengers who sailed on Symphony of the Seas between December 1, 2023, and February 26, 2024, may have been affected by Mirasol's actions.

Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis Class ship based out of Florida

Symphony of the Seas currently sails from Miami, Florida, on 7-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. She's one of the largest cruise ships in the world, following Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas. 

The 228,081 gross registered ton ship will relocate to Cape Liberty, New Jersey, in April 2025, primarily offering itineraries to the Bahamas. However, she'll make two 9-night cruises to the Eastern Caribbean on April 30 and July 4. 

Guests can take advantage of one of four pools, an ice skating rink, a miniature golf course, an outdoor AquaTheater, more than 20 dining options, a zip-line, Broadway-style entertainment, and more. 

Read more: I stayed in a $1,400 stateroom on Symphony of the Seas

Last year, Royal Caribbean canceled excursions to the popular Blue Lagoon Island in Nassau following a deadly boating incident. Having resumed operations, I booked a tour to Blue Lagoon Island on a recent sailing aboard Allure of the Seas to see how things had changed and whether safety measures had been improved. 

On November 14, 2023, a water taxi filled with cruise passengers en route to Blue Lagoon Island encountered rough seas. Due to the intake of water, the shuttle boat capsized and killed one guest. Thankfully, the shuttle was in shallow waters and didn't completely submerge. 

As a result of the fatal incident, Royal Caribbean canceled excursions to Blue Lagoon Island, and the island closed to undergo various inspections and reviews of its fleet of vessels, excursion policies, staff training protocols, and other safety operations. 

The Bahamas Port Authority approved reopening the island in January 2024. However, Royal Caribbean's suspension lasted through March 2024 while the company performed its own investigation. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cancels excursions to Blue Lagoon Island following deadly incident

Since I booked my 4-night Bahamas cruise at the last minute, the excursion to Blue Lagoon Island was pricey at $114.40 per person. However, if you purchase the tour in advance through Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner, you can snag a much better deal at around $71 per person.

Our meeting time was 10:30am, so we weren't in a rush to get off the ship. Instead, my dad and I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in the Main Dining Room before making our way to the assigned location. 

This was my first time purchasing a beach excursion in Nassau. I usually avoid them due to their high costs. After my time at Blue Lagoon Island, I'm even more excited for Royal Caribbean to open the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Even if the price point is similar, the all-inclusive amenities at the Royal Beach Club will make it well worth the cost compared to places like Blue Lagoon Island. 

Read more: I paid $830 for a cheap last-minute cruise on Allure of the Seas

Hectic check-in

As we made our way to the Zone 1 meeting spot, we were met by hordes of other passengers waiting to check in for the excursion to Blue Lagoon Island. At first, it was hard to figure out where we were supposed to go, as there seemed to be a lot of confusion. 

Two groups were meeting at the same time—one for the Deluxe Beach Break and the other for the Dolphin Encounter. Once Royal Caribbean crew members stepped in and created two distinct lines, we finally checked in with one of the Blue Lagoon Island employees and got our wristbands and meal vouchers. 

Around 10:50am, we started heading towards the tender boats. Knowing what happened one year before, I was a little anxious. However, the staff members were attentive and gave clear instructions. 

Safety briefing

The 30-minute ferry ride to Blue Lagoon Island departed at 11:05am. 

Shortly after leaving, the crew conducted a safety briefing, informing guests where the life jackets were and demonstrating how to use them. They also asked if anyone would like to wear one during the ride. 

It was smooth sailing on the way there, though my dad laughed at their song choices. He didn't think "Sweet Home Alabama" fit the vibe of a boat ride to an island in the Bahamas!

Beautiful beach but not enough umbrellas

By the time we got there, most of the chairs and umbrellas close to the arrival area were taken by earlier groups. While the beach isn't massive, fewer umbrellas are available as you trek further down the shoreline, so we had to walk a bit to find a spot with some shade—a necessity for someone who burns as easily as I do. 

My dad and I initially settled on two seats that weren't directly in the sun. However, he decided that wasn't good enough and began hunting for a stray umbrella, as a few were lying on the ground. Another cruiser helped him find one and carried it back to our seats. 

We were grateful for the help, and once the umbrella was set up, the shade made all the difference. Since there was just one departure time back to Nassau, we were worried that without an umbrella, we would end up baking in the sun and overheating. 

The spot was comfortable enough for my dad to take a quick nap while I ventured into the chilly waters. However, we both agreed that if we were to return with a later arrival time, we'd likely spend the extra money on a clamshell, rather than waste time trying to find a shaded spot. 

The setup of the beach area reminded me more of Carnival's Half Moon Cay than Perfect Day at CocoCay, where umbrellas are plentiful. Half Moon Cay, however, charges guests $35 per umbrella, so they're scarcely seen on the beach. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay vs Carnival's Half Moon Cay

Having finally gotten situated around noon, it was time for lunch before we knew it

Lunch worked differently than at the cruise line private islands I've visited. To help control crowds, the ships were assigned different dining times. Allure of the Seas, along with Carnival Dream and MSC Meraviglia, were scheduled to eat from 12:00pm-1:30pm, while some ships, like Carnival Conquest, dined as early as 10:00am. 

As we were waiting in line, an employee collected our meal ticket, which was included in the excursion's cost. The cafeteria-style options at the Shifting Tides Restaurant featured a selection of cheeseburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, Bahamian peas and rice, and corn on the cob. There was also a toppings and condiments station, along with garden salad and green beans. 

The restaurant also had à la carte options for those who booked a tour that didn't include lunch—think chips & queso ($12.60), crispy chicken wraps ($19.80), fish & chips ($21.60), and Caesar salads ($14.40). However, since our $230+ excursion included lunch, we opted for the cafeteria-style offerings. 

The cheeseburger was surprisingly tasty. It's exactly what you'd expect at a beachside grill. The BBQ chicken was another solid option. The chicken was juicy and coated with a tangy yet sweet barbeque sauce. That said, I wasn't a fan of the overly cooked corn on the cob—it was too mushy for my liking. 

When we checked in for the excursion, we were given a drink ticket that we were excited to redeem for a tropical beverage during lunch. Unfortunately, we learned it was only valid for watered-down iced tea, fruit punch, or lemonade in the dining pavilion. 

Other non-alcoholic drinks, including water, were an extra cost. For example, a bottle of Dasani water was priced at $5.50, while sodas were $3.60 each. 

Other activities 

My dad and I finished lunch around 12:45pm. With about two more hours on the island, we returned to our shaded oasis for a little bit before deciding to explore the other amenities. 

The turquoise water was so inviting that I couldn't resist dipping my toes in for a while. However, the sand was rough and gritty, so I'd recommend bringing a good pair of flip-flops or water shoes! Also, don't forget a towel from your cruise ship and plenty of sunscreen.

Once we were finished with the beach, we wandered into the souvenir stores and tried a local hot sauce. Then, we ventured to the animal exhibits, watching people swim with dolphins and interact with sea lions. 

If spending all day lounging in a beach chair isn't your thing, you can pay for a water activity upon arrival, including a snorkeling kit ($20), kayak and paddle board ($20 for 30 minutes), or the floating aqua park ($20 for all day access). 

Want to do it all? Consider the Junkanoo Pass, which includes all the water sports activities for $30 or $45 depending on which excursion you booked. Adults can also upgrade to the adults-only beach for $65 per person. 

Other activities at Blue Lagoon Island include hair braiding, henna art, and a beach volleyball court. There's also complimentary Wi-Fi. 

The speed was what you'd expect with hundreds of people on a small island. It would randomly cut out at times, such as when I was trying to check in for my flight home. 

It served its purpose; however, I wouldn't necessarily rely on it for anything. The further down the shoreline you go, the more spotty it gets. It was nice to have included Wi-Fi while ashore, though. 

Return shuttle 

Allure of the Seas' return taxi was scheduled to begin boarding at 3:00pm with plans to depart the island at 3:15pm. However, we noticed guests lining up around 2:40pm. The staff let us begin boarding early, and we were on our way back to the cruise ship piers at 3:00pm on the dot. 

Thankfully, the ride back was smooth and uneventful. Like on the way to Blue Lagoon Island, the crew conducted another safety briefing to ensure guests knew where the lifejackets were located and where to disembark in the event of an emergency. 

While the calm turquoise waters were beautiful, I wouldn't spend over $100 on another excursion to Blue Lagoon Island

Despite the reassuring safety measures, the high cost of the excursion was hard to justify. In the end, I felt a little ripped off; however, that's partly because I booked the tour at the last minute without any discounts—$70 feels much more reasonable for what the Deluxe Beach Break offers! 

In the end, I wish my dad and I had considered an all-inclusive beach day. The Warwick Paradise Island, for example, offers inclusive day passes for $125 each. Similarly, Breezes Resort has a pass for just $100 per person. 

While guests are responsible for their own transportation, the price includes access to all food and drinks, which feels like a much better value for the money. 

When Royal Caribbean resumed cruises following the COVID pandemic, the cruise giant introduced e-muster drills that effectively replaced the traditional, in-person muster drills. While this move has allowed for a more efficient, less crowded process, the creator of the digital e-muster argues the true potential of the invention has yet to be realized. 

Gone are the days when Royal Caribbean passengers had to cram together in designated muster stations while listening to safety demonstrations. With the introduction of e-muster drills, passengers can complete their safety briefing at their convenience without worrying about baking in the warm Florida sun. 

Rather than listen to a crew member relay important safety information, passengers can watch a brief video and listen to the emergency alarm on their mobile app or stateroom television before heading to their assigned muster station to check in with the ship's crew within a specific time frame after embarkation. 

Before sail away, a few more announcements are made over the public address system, and the emergency alarm is sounded. However, guests are not required to report to their muster stations and may continue to lounge by the pool, explore the ship, or unpack. 

The digital approach was conceived before the pandemic to help better inform cruisers about essential information. Ensuring guests absorbed the safety information during traditional muster drills when crammed together like sardines was difficult. 

Not only that but the old muster drill was painstaking for parties with young children and elderly cruisers who often require extra assistance when navigating to their assigned assembly stations. 

The completion of the muster drill is required by maritime law. If you choose to not watch the required videos or show up to your assembly station before sail away, your name and stateroom number will be given to crew members who will track you down. 

In short, don't be that person. The sooner you complete the drill, the sooner you can get back to enjoying the first day of your cruise vacation. 

Read more: Years after Royal Caribbean revolutionized the cruise ship safety drill, it's still the best change in the industry

The e-muster is designed to be 100% digital

Nick Weir, the former Head of Entertainment for Royal Caribbean International, was the visionary behind the e-muster concept. However, he says there's room for improvement to make the process even more efficient. 

"The use of geolocation technology in combination with personal devices and/or wearables, is actually the main event of my big idea. By installing a network of locator beacons around each muster station (similar to the system that is being used to locate and guide the indoor drone swarms that I introduced to Royal Caribbean’s production shows), guests would be able to participate in the eMuster process without the need for crew participation," he explains in an X post. 

What does this mean? Instead of requiring tons of crew members to be positioned at muster stations on embarkation day, the digital muster system would leverage guests' personal devices to automatically track and confirm their presence. 

The abstract of the patent, which was filed on March 3, 2020, reads: 

"During the period, as each mobile device is sensed within a geographically defined area of a correspondingly assigned muster station, a record of the completion of the muster drill by the passenger associated with the sensed mobile device is recorded in the memory."

"These steps can be performed digitally," Weir continues, "The arrival of a guest at their muster station can be tracked, geolocated and confirmed automatically, without the need for deploying dozens of crew members to do the [time-consuming], repetitive manual work, standing on their feet all day." 

The overall plan still includes one crew member at each station to "tie up any loose ends" and answer questions. First-time cruisers may have extra concerns they want to address before departing, so it makes sense to have a trained crew member available to provide reassurance. However, their presence would likely be phased out as society evolves and technology improves. 

"The function of eMuster—as I intended when I created it—is for it to be a fully digital, fully automated system and fully in line with the norms of modern society," he says. 

Weir adds that there's the possibility of the guests' presence at their muster stations being confirmed using facial recognition. This would benefit passengers without mobile devices or families with younger children. However, this part of the patent needs to be developed.