The Royal Caribbean app is an integral part of a cruise experience. Most passengers onboard will find themselves using the app multiple times a day to reserve shows, see what dining venues are open, check their account balance, and much more.

The Royal Caribbean app is free to download and is available on both Android and iOS devices. To download the app, simply head to the App Store or Google Play store. Once you have the app downloaded and opened, you will be prompted to sign in with your Royal Caribbean account. You do not have to have an internet package to use the Royal Caribbean app.

Knowing the ins and outs of the app’s features can make your cruise vacation a lot smoother. Let's jump in and take a look at the features on the Royal Caribbean app.

Calendar and Planner

When you open the app, you will be brought to the main page which is home to your daily planner, calendar, and helpful information for your cruise. This page is the main hub for the app and is where you can see the daily schedule of activities onboard.

To view the schedule of activities and events, swipe up on the words “Daily Planner”. Here, you can scroll through each day to view everything happening onboard. You can also select the “filter” button to filter by category, such as entertainment, fitness, and activities.

If you see an activity that looks interesting, you can press “Add to Calendar” to add it to your own personal calendar within the app. This can be a great way to keep those activities that interest you organized, and you will also receive a notification on your phone thirty minutes prior to a scheduled event.

Another thing you can do in the Daily Planner is reserve activities, shore excursions, and entertainment. Our recommendation is to open the Daily Planner shortly after embarking the ship and look for any activities or entertainment that require a reservation.

Popular activities like the North Star and RipCord by iFLY offer both complementary and paid options, but the complimentary reservations usually fill up very quickly. Shows can also fill up quickly, so it is a good idea to make reservations early to help ensure you can see and do everything you want on the ship.

Royal Caribbean usually adds activities to the Daily Planner in the days leading up to your sailing, so it may appear blank if your sailing date is further away.

Also located on the main page of the app are buttons that bring you to pages where you can access check in, safety, health, dining, and account information. Here is a brief overview of each of those pages:

Safety

The safety page is very important, as this is where you will complete the eMuster drill prior to sailaway. Royal Caribbean’s new eMuster is a three step process in which you watch a safety video, listen to the emergency horn, and visit your muster station once onboard the ship.

Our recommendation is to complete the eMuster as soon as possible once onboard. You may even choose to complete the first two steps before arriving at the terminal so that all you have to do once onboard is visit your muster station.

Check out our full article on the new eMuster drill for a more in-depth look at the process.

Check-in

The check in page is where you can complete the check in process prior to embarkation.

On this tab, you will input your documentation and contact information, as well as select an arrival time at the terminal for embarkation day.

Before you check in on the app, be sure to have your passport and vaccination card on hand.

Account

The account page is where you check your account balance throughout the cruise. It can be a good idea to check this page periodically to ensure you are aware of how much you are spending onboard and that there are no mistakes.

If you notice any unexpected or incorrect charges, you can get them resolved at Guest Services.

Dining

Feeling hungry? The dining page is the most convenient way to learn about which dining options are available onboard.

You can see which restaurants and venues are open, make dining reservations, and view restaurant menus. 

Digital key and stateroom controls

Select Royal Caribbean ships offer a digital key option, where you can choose to open your stateroom door using your app in addition to your SeaPass card.

In addition, some staterooms may offer stateroom controls, where you can control the temperature, lighting, curtains, and television through your app.

Virtual Reality Games

Depending on the ship, there may be other pages available to you in the app.

For example, on Quantum class ships, you can use the Two70 button to participate in Expedition Two70: An Augmented Reality Feature.

On Oasis class ships, you can click on the games button, head to the Boardwalk neighborhood, and point your phone’s camera at game posters near Playmakers to launch various games on the app.

Deck Maps

Another useful feature on the app, especially on the first day of your cruise, is the ability to view the ship’s deck maps. You can access this page by clicking on the small ship icon near the top of the screen.

The deck maps page offers detailed, deck by deck plans of your particular ship. We recommend browsing through the deck maps prior to your cruise to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and offerings. Whether you need to meet at a restaurant for dinner, find the Escape Room in time for your reservation, or you simply get lost, the deck maps can point you in the right direction.

Also located on the deck maps page are buttons for activities, dining, entertainment, shops, shore excursions, spa, fitness, and services. Each of these selections will bring up a list of what is offered onboard in each category, along with where on the ship a particular place is located. If you click on the Windjammer, for example, you can read a description of the venue and click the “Find on Deck” feature to see exactly where the Windjammer is located on your ship.

Profile Page

The avatar icon near the top of the screen brings you to your individualized page where you can access information on your profile, stateroom, check in, reservation, dining, internet, and recent charge activity. You can also access your SetSail Pass from this page, as well as switch between sailings on the app if you have multiple cruises booked.

Chat Feature

In the top right corner of the app, you will see a message icon. This is how you access the app’s chat feature. 

The chat feature allows you to chat with other guests onboard without having to purchase an internet package. This can be a good option for large groups who need a way to contact each other throughout the day. 

Chat is totally free to use and you don't need to buy an internet package to use it!

Do I need to use the app?

Some passengers may not own a smartphone or are hoping to shut their phone off for the duration of the cruise. While the app is not required, it offers a much more convenient way to access your cruise information, upload and view documents, and reserve activities.

If you’re not using the app, you can make reservations in person, print your SetSail Pass, and browse the paper Cruise Compass to view daily activities, but this will often be more of a hassle than using the Royal Caribbean app.

Those who are looking to stay disconnected on vacation may want to consider using the app but not purchasing an internet package. By doing so, you won’t be distracted by your phone, but will still be able to utilize the app’s features.

Royal Caribbean’s plans to purchase the Grand Lucayan resort in Freeport are off, but the company plans to participate in a new bid process.

The sale agreement of the Grand Lucayan was canceled this week after the new administration in The Bahamas determined that the way the sale was structured was ‘not in the best interests of the Bahamian people’. Concerns of clarity on how quickly the project would be advanced were mentioned.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation Chester Cooper stated that “The government was frankly not satisfied with what was proposed or that the project would be advanced in the short or medium term. We were not willing to continue on without clear timeline for completion and were of the view that many of the terms were not in the best interest of the Bahamian people.”

In early March 2020, Royal Caribbean announced plans to purchase the Grand Lucayan resort in Freeport, Bahamas. Bahamas Ports Investments Limited (BPI), the joint venture of ITM Group and Royal Caribbean Group, spent months negotiating the sale of the resort, which is owned by the Bahamian government, to transform it into a popular port destination.

Plans included a transformation of the Lucaya Property into a beachfront destination, which would include a 526-room hotel, shopping village, spa and wellness center, water and adventure park, convention center, adventure activities (such as ziplining), restaurants and bars, and entertainment. The resort would be a popular attraction for both land and cruise guests.

There were also plans for a major enhancement project at Harbour Village, the cruise ship terminal in Freeport. Enhancements would include shopping and dining venues and a transportation hub. However, BPI was unable to finalize a deal with Freeport Harbour Company. As the purchase of the resort was contingent upon reaching an agreement with the port, efforts were delayed.

The Bahamian government still plans to sell the property, noting that new investors of the Grand Lucayan will more than likely not depend on development of the port. Mr. Cooper mentioned that coupling the port and resort together was a bad idea, as it led to significant economic delay as Royal Caribbean and ITM Group struggled to reach an agreement with Freeport Harbour Company.

Royal Caribbean still plans to participate in the new bid process for the resort, though. After ITM Group’s withdrew from the acquisition, Royal Caribbean began searching for a new partner in the land-based hospitality industry.

“We look forward to participating in the new public bid process for the purchase of the Grand Lucayan once a bid is issued by the government of The Bahamas. The transformation of the Grand Lucayan into a premier entertainment resort will complement our plans for the development of a world-class cruise ship port facility in Freeport to re-establish Grand Bahama as one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations.”

Royal Caribbean will also be investing in the $450 million transformation of the Grand Bahama Shipyard, where it holds a 40% stake. They have stated that they remain committed to supporting the government’s vision for transformation of tourism offerings in Grand Bahama.

Navigator of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s amplified ships, and is currently sailing out of Los Angeles to visit destinations in Baja California and along the Mexican Riviera. 

Navigator of the Seas is the fourth ship in Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class. The ship was built in 2002, but was recently refurbished in 2019 to feature upgraded amenities, restaurants, and attractions that are found on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships.

Navigator of the Seas has capacity for 3,990 passengers and, from 2002 to 2005, was the world’s largest cruise ship. She has fifteen decks filled with pools, waterslides, bars, diverse dining options, and activities for all ages.

If you are considering booking a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, be sure to read this planning and overview guide so that you have no surprises and are ready to explore once you get onboard.

Let’s get started!

Popular Areas On Navigator of the Seas

While at first glance Navigator of the Seas can look big, getting around the ship is very straightforward. Royal Caribbean designs its ships to have popular areas and attractions conglomerated into certain areas.

The two main hubs on Navigator of the Seas are the Royal Promenade and Pool Deck.

Royal Promenade

The Royal Promenade is the main thoroughfare on Navigator of the Seas. Spanning the majority of Deck 5, the Royal Promenade features bars, shops, restaurants, and lounges. Whether to grab a coffee, purchase a souvenir, or enjoy a drink, most guests will find themselves walking through the Royal Promenade several times per day.

Here are the venues located within the Royal Promenade:

Food and Beverage:

The Bamboo Room - A Polynesian-themed bar with tropical drinks and small bites

Playmakers - Royal Caribbean’s classic sports bar and eatery, featuring televisions and games like pool and shuffleboard

Copper & Clover - An English-style pub which offers a live guitarist at night

R Bar - A no-frills, quieter spot to grab a drink

Cafe Promenade - A cafe with quick bites, pizza, and a coffee/ice cream bar

Shopping and Lifestyle:

The Collection - The Royal Caribbean logo store where guests can purchase Navigator of the Seas apparel and souvenirs

Regalia Fine Jewelry  - The jewelry shop onboard

Port Merchants - The place to purchase duty-free liquor along with snacks and toiletries

To Dry For - Offered only on Navigator of the Seas, To Dry For is a blow dry bar that offers blowouts and hairstyling

Other:

Guest Services - The place to go to have any issues or questions resolved related to your cruise experience

Shore Excursions Desk - If you have questions about a shore excursion or need to book one, you can speak to a representative here

Pool Deck Area

Following the 2019 amplification, the pool deck on Navigator of the Seas was fitted with the Caribbean-style pool deck common on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships. The pool deck has two pools and one whirlpool in its main area, as well as two additional, larger whirlpools which overlook the pool deck on the jogging track deck above.

Children in diapers are not permitted in the regular pools onboard. Because of this, Navigator of the Seas offers a small splashpad area on the pool deck. The space is not as large as the Splashaway Bay that you may find on other ships, but still offers fun splash areas for babies and toddlers.

The pool area also features casitas, which are small, covered daybeds with padded pool chairs. Casitas are a great option for those guests wanting a comfier, shaded spot to relax by the pool. There is no additional cost to use a casita, although they are first come, first serve. However, on Odyssey of the Seas, there is an additional cost to reserve a casita, so the casita policy on Navigator of the Seas may change in the future.

Also located on the pool deck are two dining options: El Loco Fresh and Johnny Rockets Express, as well as Sprinkles Ice Cream. 

One of the main additions to Navigator of the Seas’ amplification was the addition of The Lime & Coconut on the pool deck. The Lime & Coconut is a tropical-themed bar that spans three decks, offering fantastic views of the pool deck and entire ship. The bar offers comfy lounge chairs and tables and is a popular spot to watch sailaway. Located right next to The Lime & Coconut is the pool band, giving an upbeat and tropical vibe to the venue.

Up one deck from the pools, you will find the jogging track which has a variety of comfy chairs and additional casitas. This area can be a good spot to grab a chair as it is generally less crowded than the main pool deck.

Next to the main pool deck is the Solarium, the adults only pool area onboard. The Solarium on Navigator of the Seas is not completely indoors, but has a combination of covered and uncovered areas. The Solarium features one pool, two large hot tubs, and the Solarium Bar. One added bonus of spending time in the Solarium is that the pool chairs are padded, which offers more comfort to guests. There are also a few complimentary daybeds available.

The pool deck area also extends to the aft and forward of Navigator of the Seas, where you will find the Sports Court and Navigator Dunes mini golf course, along with more seating areas.

Navigator of the Seas Dining and Restaurants

Like every Royal Caribbean ship, Navigator of the Seas offers a mix of complementary and specialty dining options.

A complimentary restaurant is included in your cruise fare, so there is no additional cost to eat there. There are also no limits on how many times you can eat at a certain location, so you are free to go back as much as you would like. A specialty restaurant comes with an upcharge. Some venues have a set cost for a meal whereas others follow a “pay as you go” model, such as Izumi Sushi.

Here are the dining options onboard Navigator of the Seas:

Complimentary Dining:

• Windjammer Marketplace
• El Loco Fresh
• Main Dining Room
• Cafe Promenade
• Sprinkles Ice Cream

Specialty Dining:

• Jamie’s Italian
• Chop’s Grille
• Playmakers
• The Bamboo Room (small bites)
• Izumi Sushi
• Hooked Seafood
• Johnny Rockets Express
• Starbucks

Many passengers on Navigator of the Seas will start each day with breakfast in the Windjammer, which is a buffet that offers a range of both American and international cuisine options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Likewise, those passengers opting to eat complimentary meals may often find themselves eating in the Main Dining Room. As a Voyager Class ship, the Main Dining Room on Navigator of the Seas is 3 stories with elegant decor. We recommend eating at least one meal in the Main Dining Room to experience the venue’s atmosphere. The Main Dining Room on Navigator of the Seas is open for breakfast and dinner every day, as well as lunch on sea days.

Specialty Dining options on Navigator of the Seas are varied and include restaurants common on many Royal Caribbean ships, such as Chop’s Grille and Jamie’s Italian. The ship also offers Hooked Seafood, a restaurant found only on Navigator and Symphony of the Seas. One important thing to note is that Navigator of the Seas only offers Izumi Sushi and not Izumi Hibachi. However, the Izumi Sushi menu includes choices other than sushi, such as ramen and a hot rocks cooking option.

Choosing whether to eat only at complimentary restaurants or to expand your dining options with specialty restaurants is a decision all passengers will have to make. You can have a fantastic cruise by eating solely at complimentary venues, as Royal Caribbean takes pride in curating diverse menu options and presenting high quality food at any dining venue onboard.

Eating at a specialty restaurant, though, allows passengers to have a wider range of dining options, with cuisines and meals that may not be found elsewhere on the ship. Those looking to eat at specialty restaurants may find value in purchasing a dining package. If you plan to eat at specialty restaurants, our recommendation is to purchase either the 3-night Dining Package or Unlimited Dining Package.

Things to do on Navigator of the Seas

Shows & Entertainment

Navigator of the Seas offers complimentary shows, music, and activities for guests to enjoy.

The signature theater production on Navigator of the Seas is Showgirl! Past. Present. Future. Located in the Royal Theater, this production takes a look at the journey of a Showgirl throughout time through choreography, music, and elaborate costumes and set design.

In Studio B, the ice skating arena onboard, Navigator of the Seas offers iSkate: Reach for the Stars Ice Show. iSkate uses a combination of drones and figure skaters to dazzle the audience with freestyle skating to the performers’ favorite music.

Our tip for seeing the shows onboard is to ensure you make reservations early. Making reservations is easy to do in the Royal Caribbean app, as you can select the time and date that works best for you. If you forget to make a reservation and there are no more spots available, head to the Royal Theater or Studio B prior to the show and wait to see if there is room for extra guests. Guests often make reservations and forget or decide not to attend, which makes space for those without reservations.

You don’t have to attend a show to find great entertainment onboard, though. Navigator of the Seas offers live music throughout the day in its bars and lounges. In Boleros, guests can enjoy a live band playing Latin music (with a small space for dancing). Those in the Royal Promenade can stop at the Copper & Clover pub to listen to the acoustic guitarist present most evenings. Other music options onboard include piano tunes at the Schooner Bar, Caribbean-style music on the pool deck, and an evening DJ at the Cosmopolitan club.

Outside of shows and music, there are other activities to enjoy such as comedians, trivia, karaoke, and game shows. Our recommendation is to check your Cruise Compass or the Royal Caribbean app every day to see activities are happening onboard.

Signature Activities on Navigator of the Seas

Water slides

When you first catch a glimpse of Navigator of the Seas, there is one thing you will notice: the waterslides. Royal Caribbean did not skimp on the ship’s water slides during her amplification, and the Perfect Storm water slides are a thrill for all ages.

The Blaster is an “aqua coaster” and is the longest water slide at sea at over 800 feet. Riders on The Blaster use a 2-person raft as they are blasted down and around the entire sports court area, including a stretch that is suspended over Navigator of the Seas with nothing but the ocean below.

The other water slide onboard is Riptide, a headfirst water slide where guests lay on a mat and are zipped around the ship. Riptide has sections of the slide that not only suspend over the water off the side of the ship, but are clear, meaning that you see directly into the ocean below.

Sports Court

Other than the waterslides, the Sports Court is home to several other active activities, all of which are included in your cruise fare. A full sized basketball court is available, where guests can shoot hoops or participate in other activities on the court such as pickleball. This is often a hub of activity on sea days, with tournaments and free play throughout the day.

Also in the Sports Court area is the rock climbing wall. Guests of all ages can test their strength by climbing up the wall, which offers both beginner and more challenging routes. There will often be special events held at the rock wall like speed climbing challenges and night climbing sessions.

In the back of the Sports Court, you will find the FlowRider Surf Simulator. Guests can try their skills at boogie boarding and surfing as rushing water shoots out from the FlowRider.

Additional Activities

Beyond the Sports Court, there are many other activities to choose from onboard Navigator of the Seas. On the front of the ship is the Navigator Dunes, a complimentary mini golf course. Inside the ship guests can enjoy ice skating in Studio B.

One popular activity that does come at an extra cost is the Escape Room. Guests can reserve times to challenge themselves to complete this interactive puzzle in the Royal Caribbean app.

Wellness & Relaxation

While Navigator of the Seas offers exciting waterslides, shows, music, and more, some guests are looking for something a little more tranquil. Luckily, there are several ways onboard to fulfill your wellness needs.

The Vitality Fitness Center on Navigator of the Seas is larger than the space on other Voyager Class ships and offers free weights, cardio machines, and weight machines. It also features a spacious room where workout classes, like yoga and spinning, are offered. The majority of equipment faces large windows which allow for views of the ocean while working out.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, the Vitality Spa & Salon on Navigator of the Seas will do the trick. There are a wide array of spa treatments to reserve including massages, facials, and nail treatments. Our recommendation is to take the complimentary spa tour on the first day of your cruise to learn more about the treatments available.

Those looking for quiet spaces to relax onboard should explore the Promenade deck located on deck 4. The Promenade deck is an outdoor walking area that spans the entire circumference of Navigator of the Seas. In addition, the Helipad can be accessed from the Promenade deck which is a peaceful spot to relax or watch the ship make her way through the sea.

Navigator of the Seas staterooms

Navigator of the Seas has a mix of staterooms including interior, outside view, balcony, and suite cabins. Here is an overview of the staterooms you can choose from when booking your cruise:

Interior

Interior rooms on Navigator of the Seas are, as the name implies, located in the interior of the ship. These rooms do not have a window or balcony. Interior rooms can be a good option for passengers on a budget and those who do not plan to spend much time in their stateroom.

Interior Promenade

If you’re looking to upgrade from an interior room but don’t necessarily want to splurge on a balcony, an interior promenade view is an option to consider. Interior promenade rooms are interior rooms with a window overlooking the Royal Promenade, which can help you feel more connected to the ship from inside your cabin.

Outside View

Outside view staterooms are most commonly located on the lower decks or front of the ship. Each outside view stateroom comes with a porthole offering views of the ocean. These rooms are generally more expensive than an interior stateroom, but less expensive than a balcony.

Balcony Room

Balcony rooms are extremely popular cabin choices for cruise passengers. Whereas in the past cruise ships were constructed with few balconies, nowadays new cruise ships are lined with balconies on each side of the ship. Balcony rooms on Navigator of the Seas are a great choice for those looking for a private, outdoor space. Not only do balconies allow for wonderful views of the ocean, but they also increase living space in a stateroom.

Junior Suite

A junior suite is a more spacious room than those mentioned above and also boasts a larger balcony space. In addition, junior suites have a full bath tub, upgraded bathroom amenities, and offer double Crown and Anchor Society points. As a junior suite and not a regular suite, though, some benefits differ. For example, junior suites do not include access to the suite lounge or complimentary room service.

Suites

Navigator of the Seas offers several types of suites for guests including the 2 Bedroom Grand Suite, Royal Suite, and Owner’s Suite. These staterooms are very spacious, with separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, as well as extra large balconies. The Royal Suite on Navigator of the Seas is particularly spacious, with a living room, mini bar, dining table, piano, two bathrooms, and master bedroom. Suites on Navigator of the Seas come with an array of benefits, including Suite Lounge access, concierge service, priority dining and spa reservations, complimentary room service, and reserved seating at shows.

Choosing which stateroom to pick can be a difficult decision for some guests. What works best for one passenger may not work for another, so it’s important to look at your vacation style and budget before selecting a cabin.

Do you plan to only be in your stateroom to sleep and shower and are traveling on a limited budget? An interior cabin may work best for you. Do you enjoy the privacy and extra space you can get with a balcony? Are you looking for the enhanced cruise experience you can find in a suite? Asking yourself these questions can help narrow down your stateroom options.

You may also wish to place a bid in the RoyalUp Program. RoyalUp is a bidding system in which guests are able to bid on an upgraded stateroom prior to their sailing. Using a sliding scale, you can choose how much, per person, you would like to bid.

The chances of your bid winning can depend on a variety of factors such as the ship’s capacity and your bid amount. Generally you will receive an email inviting you to participate in RoyalUp about a month before your cruise.

Preparing for a cruise to Alaska can seem a bit overwhelming. Whether selecting a ship or planning your time in port, you don’t want to miss out on all of the outdoor and cultural activities Alaska has to offer.

It’s best to research what activities fit within your interest, fitness level, and budget. Some passengers may want to view as much wildlife as possible whereas others may be looking to learn more about Alaska’s history and culture.

Here’s a look at some of the best things to do on an Alaskan cruise.

What to do in port

Explore nature

Alaska’s nature is colossal. As the biggest state in the US, it can be difficult to comprehend just how vast the nature in Alaska really is. If you’re hoping to explore the outdoors, there are excursions to fit any interest and fitness level.

In the warmer months, consider a Bike and Brew tour in Juneau, where you will bike along a series of trails through the Mendenhall Valley and Tongass National Forest with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier. And, just as the name implies, these bike tours end with a stop at a brewery in downtown Juneau.

If you like hiking, check out what day hikes are available in port. Ketchikan, as an example, has several hiking trails of various difficulty. If you’re up for a challenge, push yourself to reach the top of Deer Mountain. With three thousand feet of elevation change over seven miles, it is certainly not easy, but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Alaska in every direction.

There are plenty of ways to explore Alaska’s nature without breaking a sweat, though. After all, most excursions and activities focus on exploring the outdoors. For something relaxing and scenic, book a ticket on the White Pass & Yukon Railway in Skagway. This is a train ride that travels from Skagway into the mountains, passing through dense pine forests, waterfalls, and snowy mountain clearings.

Another less strenuous outdoor adventure is a whale watching tour. Whales are commonly spotted in Alaska’s southeast coast during the summer months. While you may be able to spot whales from the cruise ship, booking a whale watching tour allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent sea creatures.

A helpful tip when looking for a shore excursion is to filter by “Activity Level” on Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner website. You can filter excursions by mild, moderate, and strenuous. This can be helpful to ensure an excursion fits within the fitness capabilities of yourself or your group.

Grab a drink at a saloon

Whereas the Caribbean has tiki bars, Alaska has saloons. In many Alaskan ports you will find a historic or western-themed saloon. These establishments can be a great place to eat and drink after a shore excursion or relax in before heading back to the ship.

A popular spot to visit in Juneau is the Red Dog Saloon. The saloon was established in the height of the city’s mining era and has been recognized as Juneau’s oldest man-made tourist destination. Walking into the saloon is like walking back in time to the early 1900s. The establishment is eclectic, with frontier-themed decor as well as some more funky decor such as a collection of dollar bills and business cards posted on the walls.

The saloon offers very reasonably priced drinks as well as standard American and Alaskan fare. Make sure to try some of the saloon’s special drinks, such as the Alaskan Duck Fart shot and draft root beer. Or cozy up with a warm Irish coffee as you listen to live music from a local guitarist.

Luckily, the Red Dog Saloon is located only a few blocks away from the ship, so if you happen to have a few too many drinks, it won’t take very long to get back onboard.

Consider a land tour before or after your cruise

Cruises to Alaska primarily visit the state’s southeast region. Many of Alaska’s most iconic landmarks, such as Denali National Park, are located further inland and inaccessible by a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean recognizes that many passengers want to visit Alaska’s inland destinations. Thus, they offer Alaska Cruise Tours.

Alaska Cruise Tours are a combination of a one way cruise and a land tour of Alaska. Both pre and post-cruise tours are available, meaning that you can decide to fly one-way to Alaska, do a land tour, and take a cruise back to Seattle or Vancouver, or do it the other way around. Land tours range from an extra 2-5 nights on land in addition to your time on a cruise ship.

Land tours offer a mix of guided tours and independent exploring. All accommodation and transportation is organized by Royal Caribbean, making your time on land worry free. Activities and excursions on a land tour may include boarding the Wilderness Express scenic train ride to Denali, cruising the Chena River in Fairbanks, and enjoying a scenic ride on the Turnagain Arm Drive near Seward.

What to do at sea

View the scenery from public areas

Many cruises to Alaska offer a few hours of sightseeing in destinations like Hubbard Glacier and Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier. On these days, the ship reaches a glacier and slows down, traveling along the glacier and turning the ship 360 degrees to ensure that passengers will get a chance to view the scenery from anywhere onboard.

Many passengers will opt to view the scenery from the comfort of their balconies, but this is not necessarily the best spot to do so.

Balconies usually only face one direction. If the ship is sailing past Hubbard Glacier, you will spend a significant amount of time there facing the opposite direction of the glacier from your balcony.

Viewing the glacier from a public area onboard, such as the pool deck, allows you to keep your eye on the scenery the entire time the ship is there. The glacier is on the ship’s starboard side? Simply walk over to that side of the pool deck. Now the best view is from the aft? Take a short stroll to the back of the ship.

A recommendation, especially if you do not have a balcony room, is to scope out the ship’s best areas for viewing the scenery when you get onboard. You may find a few “secret” areas, like the Solarium bridge wings or the outdoor seating area at the Windjammer, that offer fantastic views with fewer crowds.

Do nothing!

Funny enough, even though this article is about the best things to do on an Alaskan cruise, some of the most memorable moments onboard will be when you are doing nothing except relaxing and looking at the scenery around you.

A cruise to Alaska is less about the activities offered on a specific ship and more about the destination. Royal Caribbean takes very scenic routes through Alaska’s inside passage, meaning that a day “at sea” can also mean a day of sightseeing.

While some Royal Caribbean ships traveling to Alaska will offer more activities onboard than others, don’t let this be a deciding factor in which ship you choose. You may find that you spend less time doing activities indoors, anyway, and more time relaxing with a great view.

On the whole, an Alaskan cruise offers activities that fit various budgets and interests. And while the “best thing to do” on an Alaskan cruise might be relative, these options can be a great starting point for planning your trip.

If you’re looking for more inspiration on what to do on an Alaskan cruise, read our live blogs from Alaska on Explorer of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas for more ideas. In addition, don’t forget to check out our full ship tour of Ovation of the Seas if you will be sailing her to Alaska next summer.

Read more

• Top 10 tips for planning your Alaska cruise
• What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise?
• What is the best time to cruise to Alaska?

The second and final day of our Navigator of the Seas media cruise brings us to Ensenada, Mexico.

This morning, I woke up early to walk around the running track on Deck 12 and catch some great views of the ship on its way to Ensenada. I ended up walking around the pool deck and promenade deck for around an hour, and I enjoyed the calm seas and slightly chilly weather.

I also ventured to the Helicopter Pad down below. The Helipad is only available to guests on Radiance, Freedom and Voyager class ships, and is one of my favorite places to go to have some peace and quiet while watching the ocean.

We ordered room service for breakfast this morning. One of my favorite things to do when I have a balcony room is to enjoy a nice, private breakfast on the balcony. Our room service arrived right as the ship docked in Ensenada.

Ensenada is south of Tijuana and Rosarito in Baja California and it definitely has a different feel compared to Royal Caribbean’s stops in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Whereas Cozumel is very green, humid, and flat, Ensenada is dry and mountainous. And while the Caribbean side of Mexico is known for its beaches and Mayan ruins, Ensenada offers different activities such as winery tours, horseback riding, and whale watching excursions.

Navigator of the Seas docks near downtown Ensenada. You can get to the main part of town via a short shuttle bus or by taking a stroll along the boardwalk in the harbor. We opted to go on foot, and it was an easy five minute walk to town.

We had nothing planned for our day in Ensenada, but we knew we wanted to experience a more local side to the city. Uber conveniently works in Ensenada, so we grabbed a ride to Mercado Los Globos, a large local market about ten minutes away. I love exploring markets in whatever country I visit, as it gives a great perspective into the local culture, cuisine, and traditions.

When we arrived at the mercado, our time in Ensenada quickly turned into a food tour. The market was packed with fresh produce, restaurants, and juice stands. We started off our food tour by tasting fresh fruit and snacks.

For lunch, I grabbed a Jamaica juice from one stand in the market and chilaquiles from another. It’s hard to go wrong with Mexican food, and the offerings at Mercado Los Globos are varied and authentic.

Following lunch, we continued exploring the market before taking an Uber back to the main tourist strip in Ensenada near the port.  There, we walked around the shops to pick up a few small souvenirs to bring home.

Ensenada is filled with street food vendors, though, so our food tour continued! First up was ceviche at La Guerrerense, a famous spot for locals and tourists alike. In fact, Anthony Bourdain named La Guerrerense one of the best street food carts in the world! If you like fresh seafood, this is a great place to try in Ensenada.

We ended our food tour with my personal favorite, churros filled with chocolate and dulce de leche, before heading back onboard Navigator of the Seas.

After a short walk around the promenade deck, I headed to the pool deck to watch the ship sail away from Mexico.

Sailaway happened right at sunset, and tonight’s sunset was magical. With vibrant colors and smooth seas, it may have been the best sunset I’ve ever seen while at sea.

I originally planned to attend tonight’s ice skating show, but the sunset was so beautiful that I couldn’t make myself leave the pool deck! I did, however, run down to Studio B to check it out for a few minutes and the show was quite impressive.

I especially enjoyed the synchronized drones that lit up at the start of the show. 

After watching the sunset, we went to Playmakers to play pool, shuffleboard, and Mrs. Pac-Man while enjoying a sampler of wings and truffle french fries.

Playmakers is one of my favorites venues on Royal Caribbean, and tonight the space was packed with guests, creating the energized ambiance that every sports bar should have.

After a brief rest in my stateroom, I spent some time listening to the pub singer at the Copper & Clover, which is always a relaxing way to end a busy day on a cruise.

Due to the extensive food tasting in Ensenada, I wasn’t very hungry for a big dinner, so I grabbed some pizza from Cafe Promenade. While not as fancy as last night’s dinner at Chops Grille, it definitely hit the spot.

Lastly, I headed to the theater to watch Showgirls before going to bed.

This two night cruise went by quickly and I’m sad to say goodbye to Navigator of the Seas tomorrow. At the same time, I’m excited that the ship will continue to sail out of Los Angeles and add more Royal Caribbean presence on the west coast.

Today is the first day of a two night cruise from Los Angeles on Navigator of the Seas.

Navigator of the Seas is a Voyager Class ship and is the first Royal Caribbean ship to sail from Los Angeles in ten years. This two night sailing is a media sailing, and Royal Caribbean invited me onboard to check out all that the new west coast sailings have to offer.

I was especially excited for this cruise because I really enjoyed my cruise on Mariner of the Seas, which is also a Voyager Class ship. I love the size, decor, and layout of the Voyager Class. Plus, Navigator of the Seas was amplified in 2019, so it has many of the same features and venues as newer Royal Caribbean ships.

I arrived at the port around 11:30AM to board Navigator of the Seas. Our room was changed at the last minute and we were given an accessible ocean view balcony. The room is very spacious, and after two cruises in an inside cabin, I was really excited about the extra large balcony!

The first stop once I got onboard was The Bamboo Room in the Royal Promenade. I think this might be my favorite indoor bar on any Royal Caribbean ship. I love the Polynesian and tiki style decor and vibe, and the drinks are really great too! I ordered the Banana Colada which never disappoints.

One of the primary tasks for this cruise is to film a full ship tour of Navigator of the Seas for the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel. This will be the fourth full ship tour we have created, following Mariner of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, and Ovation of the Seas. This afternoon was spent exploring the ship with my camera to take video clips of all the exciting places onboard.

Being a media cruise, there were a few special events happening. Many of the specialty restaurants had food and drink samples available for guests to taste, and the Windjammer had an enhanced menu to celebrate the start of cruises in Los Angeles. I celebrated by sampling the red velvet cake from Chops (so good!) and enjoying some Indian food in the Windjammer for lunch.

After lunch, I continued exploring the ship. Navigator of the Seas' amplification included adding Playmakers, The Bamboo Room, waterslides, The Lime & Coconut, and more. The waterslides look extremely fun and even jet over the side of the ship! I thought the layout of the pool deck was great, too, with casitas, comfy seating, and a tropical vibe. 

Sailaway was at 5PM, right as the sun began to set in Los Angeles. For sailaway, I headed to the top deck of The Lime & Coconut. I love how The Lime & Coconut encompasses three decks, and the top deck in particular has both comfy seating and excellent views.

Soon enough, we were sailing past the Port of Los Angeles and into the open ocean. Since it got dark pretty quickly after sailaway, we headed back to our stateroom to relax before an evening of activities on board.

First, we headed to the Viking Crown Lounge. Whether during the day or night, this space is one of the best places to relax with a view on any Voyager Class ship.

Next up was dinner at Chops Grille. While I usually opt for Italian or Teppanyaki, I decided to switch it up on this cruise. Our table enjoyed the crispy goat cheese salad, black pepper bacon, lobster, salmon, key lime pie, and cheesecake. It was delicious as usual!

Dinner finished quite late and the rest of the evening was spent walking around the ship, listening to Latin music at Boleros, and relaxing on the balcony.

Overall, it was a great first day onboard and I am excited to keep exploring Navigator of the Seas. Tomorrow we dock in Ensenada, Mexico.

Stray Observations:

Be sure to go to the right cruise terminal! We originally drove to the wrong area and ended up at the cruise terminal where Carnival and the Queen Mary are docked. Luckily, it was only a ten minute drive away, and seeing the Queen Mary was fascinating. However, definitely type the exact address into Google Maps instead of just typing "Port of Los Angeles." Oops!

The DJ had some pretty awesome music playing during sailaway.

I wish Navigator of the Seas had Teppanyaki!

The gym area on Navigator is much bigger than on Mariner of the Seas. Playmakers also has more seating and space, including an Owner’s Box.

Right next to Navigator of the Seas at the port is the USS Iowa. This is a retired battleship turned museum and looks like an interesting thing to do if you have extra time before or after the cruise.

Cruising to Alaska is something that should be on everyone's bucket list. The state's southeast region, where cruises visit, is dotted with picturesque towns and gorgeous landscapes. Southeast Alaska has very few roads connecting its destinations, making a cruise an ideal way to visit the region.

The Alaskan cruise season generally operates between April and September each year. And while the peak season for an Alaskan cruise is between June and August, cruising in the shoulder season can have its perks.

If you’re looking at booking a cruise near the end of the Alaskan cruise season, such as in September, here are a few things to expect.

Colder and Wetter Weather

Most Alaskans you encounter at port will tell you that Alaska’s weather can change very suddenly. Southeast Alaska is a temperate rainforest. In fact, Ketchikan, a common port on an Alaskan cruise, can receive over thirteen feet of rain per year!

While visiting Alaska, you should expect and prepare for rain during any month. The two rainiest months of the year are September and October. Regardless of which month you cruise to Alaska, though, you should pack and plan accordingly with waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and a waterproof day bag for when you’re at port.

However, don’t let the rainier weather deter you from an Alaskan cruise later in the season. While it will likely rain during your cruise, it usually doesn’t last the whole day. On our most recent Alaskan cruise here at Royal Caribbean Blog, it did rain almost every day, but often only for a few minutes or hours. The rain was usually very light, so with proper rain gear, it was not a big deal.

Temperature-wise, expect a high in the mid-50s in September. While it won’t be extremely chilly, definitely pack layers. In Alaska, you might be wearing a winter jacket and a short sleeve shirt on the same day!

It’s worth noting that Alaska’s fall weather conditions might lead to higher seas and intense winds. When this happens, the outdoor decks are often temporarily closed and things may be swaying a bit more than usual onboard.

Autumn Sights

A change in seasons is noticeable in Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

You can view diverse wildlife and landscapes at any time in Alaska, but each time of year can offer different sights. While bears begin hibernating in September, there are still plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as whales, eagles, and moose in the fall. Another plus of cruising later in the season is that there are fewer mosquitos to worry about while at port.

When it comes to landscape, the scenery in September can look much different than earlier in the year. Expect fall colors and snowy mountains, especially if you travel to a higher elevation while in port.

Additionally, as the daylight hours get shorter in September, there is a higher chance of spotting the northern lights. Though not guaranteed and dependent on cloud coverage, this is a perk of cruising to Alaska later in the season.

Lower prices

Cruising during the shoulder season in Alaska can mean finding better deals than in the peak summer months. Prices can be several hundred dollars more in July than in September.

If you’re traveling to Alaska on a budget or are looking to splurge on an upgraded stateroom or shore excursion, it might be worth it to cruise later in the season. That $300 you save on a cruise fare can be put toward excursions such as a helicopter tour of Mendenhall Glacier or a scenic train ride in Skagway. You may also wish to save on the cruise fare to splurge onboard with a dining or deluxe beverage package.

It’s never a good idea to book a cruise solely based on price, of course. If you like to spend most of your time on the pool deck, you probably don’t want to book a cruise to Alaska in September. But if you’re less concerned about the weather and are hoping to see snowier landscapes, don’t hesitate to book a cruise in the shoulder season.

Shorter Days

In the peak of summer, you can expect to see up to 18 hours of daylight while cruising in Alaska. In September, you may only have around 11-13 hours of daylight. In Juneau, for example, the sun may rise at 6:30AM and set at 7PM in mid-September.

Thus, a common concern of traveling to Alaska later in the season is the “lack” of daylight. And while there are less hours of daylight, this should not be a deterrent from booking a cruise later in the season.

After all, there are not many passengers walking around onboard before 6AM whether it is light outside or not. Therefore, when most passengers are waking up, the sun is also starting to rise.

Plus, more than likely, any time that you are in port will be during daylight hours. You don’t have to worry about walking around at night or missing a shore excursion opportunity due to the darkness.

The only time you may notice a change in the daytime hours on an Alaskan cruise is in the evening. In the summer, you’ll have the opportunity to stay outdoors at night for much longer to view the scenery. In September, though, it will probably be dark by 8PM.

The evening is a busy time onboard any Royal Caribbean cruise, though. Whether at dinner or a show, you will probably spend most of the evening indoors. Therefore, the earlier sunset may not affect your experience in the slightest.

Picking when to cruise to Alaska is a big decision. The views are outstanding at any time of year, and while there may not be as much sunshine later in the season, you get the added perks of the fall scenery and lower prices.

Ultimately, whether you cruise to Alaska in June or September, much of the experience on land or at sea will be more similar than different.

One big change that Royal Caribbean has implemented this year is Muster 2.0. Otherwise known as eMuster, this is a streamlined and digital upgrade to the traditional muster drill.

The muster drill is a mandatory safety briefing during which passengers learn where to go and what to do in case of an emergency onboard. The drill must be completed by all passengers on the first day of a cruise before the ship can depart.

Prior to the cruise shutdown, the muster drill was an activity many passengers disliked. Passengers had to gather at their muster station at the same time as everyone else in their group. This often led to large crowds and a lot of waiting around outside in uncomfortable temperatures.

Muster 2.0 is a new and improved hybrid model, completed partly on the Royal Caribbean app (or stateroom television) and partly in-person at your designated assembly station. It is a quick, flexible, and stress-free experience.

If you haven’t been on a cruise yet this year, it’s important to know when and how to complete the new emuster drill. After all, you don’t want to be that one passenger who is delaying the ship’s departure!

Here’s what you can expect when doing the emuster drill on your next cruise.

What to do first: Download the Royal Caribbean App

The first step to completing Muster 2.0 is to make sure you have the Royal Caribbean app downloaded on your smartphone. Royal Caribbean’s app is free and is available on both iOS and Android devices.

After the app is downloaded, login to your Royal Caribbean account. You should see your next sailing appear on the app. Once on the main page, select the safety button in the bottom left corner. This will take you to the page where you can begin the emuster drill.

No smartphone?

If you do not have a smartphone, you can complete all necessary Muster 2.0 steps on the television in your stateroom once you get onboard.

Keep in mind that you could download the Royal Caribbean app on a tablet as well.

Muster 2.0 Steps

On the safety page within the app, you will see three steps that you must complete. Next to each step, you will see a box that says “incomplete”. As you complete each step, each box will change from “incomplete” to “complete”.

Step one: Watch the short safety video

The first step on the emuster drill is to watch a short, animated safety video demonstrating how to properly put on a lifejacket. At the end, you click on a checkbox next to your name to confirm that you have watched the video.

Step two: Listen to the emergency horn

If there is an emergency onboard, you will hear a very loud, high-pitched beeping sound. The emergency horn on Royal Caribbean ships consists of seven short beeping noises followed by one long noise. It is important to know what the horn sounds like so that you are aware of an emergency should the horn blast through the cruise ship’s speakers.

To complete this step, simply press the blue play button in the “Emergency horn” box. Make sure your phone’s audio levels aren’t up all the way as the emergency horn can be quite loud.

Step three: Locate and visit your assembly station

Step three of the emuster drill differs from the first two steps in that it requires going to your assembly station onboard the ship.

After you’ve listened to the emergency horn, scroll down to the box that says “Visit Assembly Station” and click “Find on deck”. A deck plan of the ship will pop up showing you exactly where your assembly station is located.

With your phone in hand (or SeaPass card if you do not have a smartphone), go to your assembly station. If you need help locating your assembly station, simply ask one of the crew members.

Once you arrive at the assembly station, a crew member will give you a very brief safety demonstration. After this is done, they will scan your SeaPass, indicating that you have completed the emuster drill.

It’s a good idea to double check that all steps on the app’s safety page have been marked as complete. Once you see a green “complete” box next to each step, you have successfully completed the emuster drill.

How to do Muster 2.0 with children

Children also have to complete the emuster drill, although the process is a little different for them. When an adult in the cabin watches the safety video and listens to the emergency horn, the children in that cabin are automatically considered to have completed those steps too.

Children must also accompany the adults in their cabin to the assembly station to have their SeaPass cards scanned, indicating that they have completed the emuster drill.

Royal Caribbean also has a safety section for children located at the bottom of the safety page on the app or on the stateroom television. It is called “Learn about safety with Lulu & Mika” and goes over the safety information in a fun, cartoon-style video.

The video is not mandatory to watch, but may be helpful to give children a better idea of what to expect in an emergency situation.

When to do the Muster 2.0

In the weeks leading up to your cruise, you may be eager to get everything done ahead of time. You can watch the safety video and listen to the emergency horn at any time on the app, but unless you see the “Incomplete” box next to each step, the muster drill has not officially opened for your sailing yet.

You will receive a notification on your phone when you can start working on the steps of the emuster drill. If you don’t receive a notification, simply check the day before your sailing to see if the emuster drill is available.

A good idea is to complete the first two steps of the emuster drill the night before your cruise so that all you have to do once onboard is go to your assembly station. You can even choose to do this immediately after boarding so that you are done with the emuster drill within the first few minutes of being on the ship.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to do the emuster drill! Some passengers may be so excited to explore the ship or grab a drink by the pool that they completely forget about it. The ship will not leave port until all passengers have completed every step.

Royal Caribbean is constantly working to improve the cruise experience for its guests, and Muster 2.0 is no exception. What used to be an experience many passengers disliked doing on the first day of a cruise is now an easy, straightforward process that will allow your vacation to begin without any hassle.

No matter how much research and planning you do before a cruise, there are bound to be a few surprises.

Looking back on last month's cruise to Alaska on Ovation of the Seas, there were several things I think I did right, but also several mistakes I made along the way.

From packing for Alaska's unpredictable weather to rushing to make my flight home, here are a few takeaways and lessons learned from my sailing.

What I did right

Planning what to do in port in advance

A cruise to Alaska is less about lounging on a beach with a cocktail in hand and more about experiencing the nature and sights that each Alaskan port has to offer.

Do you want to book a whale watching tour? Go on the White Pass & Yukon Railway? Explore Mendenhall Glacier? Doing a little research on each port before arriving can make your time in port go much smoother. Not only that, but many popular excursions run the chance of selling out. Planning early ensures you can book an excursion when it is still available (and often at the best price).

Planning in advance doesn't just have to mean booking an excursion directly through Royal Caribbean, either. You can research local tour operators and transportation, too, as well as restaurants, bars, shopping, museums, and hikes you may want to check out.

While I don't recommend planning a day in port on a super strict schedule, it can be helpful to know the basics of what there is to do in each location before arriving.

Bringing binoculars

Binoculars may not be an object you use very often at home, but they come in handy on an Alaskan cruise.

Throughout my sailing, I was happy I brought binoculars with me. Alaska's scenery is stunning in every direction. Binoculars allowed me to feel closer to the state's gargantuan nature.

While sailing through Alaska's inside passage on the way to Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, I used my binoculars to look for eagles in the trees and watch waterfalls flow into the icy water.  At Mendenhall Glacier, binoculars allowed me to see the glacier "up close" even though I was standing several hundred feet away.

The basic binoculars I purchased for my Alaskan cruise ran only $30 and were worth every penny.

Being flexible

Royal Caribbean cannot, of course, control the weather. Itinerary changes and other unexpected events can happen on a cruise.

There are two ways to approach any unexpected changes: by going with the flow or by letting it negatively impact your vacation.

Your North Star reservation gets cancelled because of windy weather? A port changes due to high seas? Sure, it may not be the best news you've ever heard, but remember that Royal Caribbean's top priority is to keep everyone safe.

I encountered quite a few unexpected changes in Alaska, but embraced whatever new scenarios those changes brought.

When our itinerary dropped Sitka and added Ketchikan as a port, I found myself excited to explore a new place I did not know anything about. When our highly anticipated North Star experience was cancelled, we watched the scenery while enjoying a drink at the North Star Bar instead.

Being flexible is always important on a cruise, but especially in Alaska where the weather can change every five minutes!

What I did wrong:

While there are many things I did right on my Alaskan cruise, I did, of course, make a few mistakes.

Packing way too many clothes

I am usually a light packer and a big fan of traveling with just a carry on, but I packed WAY too many clothes for my Alaskan cruise.

When I looked at the weather forecast for Alaska, I panicked. It showed rain nearly every day and temperatures in the 40s. I packed my rain gear and winter gear. I packed daytime clothes to wear around the ship and dinner outfits. Plus swimwear. Plus pajamas.

My aforementioned light packing skills failed completely and I checked a 50lb bag filled with what felt like my entire wardrobe.

How many clothes did I end up wearing? About half of what I brought.

The old saying to pack a suitcase and take out half of the clothes before leaving for vacation rang true here, and I definitely regretted packing so much.

Cruising in cold weather is much different than in warm weather. In the Caribbean, for example, clothes tend to get dirtier much faster due to the sweltering heat, sand, and salt water.

In Alaska, where I was often shivering instead of sweating, I found that my clothes stayed cleaner for much longer.

In fact, I ended up wearing nearly the same exact outfit every day of the cruise: jeans, waterproof boots, a sweater, and a raincoat. Therefore, most of what I had packed remained untouched.

Booking my flight home before noon

I booked my departure flight from Seattle at 11:27AM on disembarkation day. Originally, we were set to arrive in Seattle at 6AM, leaving me plenty of time to get to the airport (or so I thought). Due to the sailing's itinerary change and unexpected delays, though, I did not have nearly as much time as I anticipated.

While I did make my flight home with nearly an hour to spare, I wish I had booked a flight just a little later to avoid the extra stress I encountered due to my early flight.

On the last morning of the cruise, I brought my suitcase to the Royal Esplanade to get in line for disembarkation. At around 7AM, there were only a few people ahead of me.

Then the departure process ran into several delays as we entered and docked in Seattle, leading to huge lines and a little bit of chaos. Many passengers were getting nervous about their early flights.

Luckily, since I was one of the first people in line for departure, I was able to quickly get an Uber and did not run into traffic on the way to the airport.

Was it worth the stress, though? Not really. While waiting at the airport longer before a flight isn't always enjoyable, it is certainly better than missing a flight if things go wrong. Disembarkation can be affected by many scenarios, so if you're sailing to Alaska, try to get a flight leaving Seattle at 1PM or later.

Ultimately, whether in Alaska, the Caribbean, or anywhere else, a little bit of planning and flexibility can go a long way.

And while I made a couple mistakes along the way, my cruise to Alaska was unbelievably beautiful and was an adventure I will definitely never forget.