The Royal Caribbean mobile app is an essential tool for every cruiser. Available for iOS and Android, this app simplifies nearly every aspect of your voyage, from pre-cruise check-in to onboard reservations and real-time ship updates.
Key Features of the Royal Caribbean App
1. Online Check-In and Boarding Pass
Gone are the days of long check-in lines at the terminal. With the app, you can:
- Complete your online check-in before arriving at the port.
- Upload necessary documents (passport, COVID-19 vaccination proof, etc.).
- Generate a mobile boarding pass to speed up embarkation.
2. Daily Planner and Activity Scheduling
The app provides a full itinerary of daily activities, including:
- Showtimes for entertainment, Broadway-style productions, and live music.
- Daily events like trivia, dance classes, and themed parties.
- Dining reservations for specialty restaurants.
- Shore excursion booking and schedules.
3. Restaurant Menus and Dining Reservations
Dining is a huge part of any cruise, and the app makes it easier than ever to plan your meals:
- View full menus for main dining rooms, specialty restaurants, and casual dining spots.
- Make dining reservations in advance to secure your preferred time.
- Order food and drinks via the app on select ships.
4. Messaging and Communication
Staying in touch with your travel companions is simple with the app’s messaging feature (available on select ships for a small fee). This eliminates the need for walkie-talkies or purchasing a full internet package.
5. Virtual Key for Stateroom Access
Some ships support the app’s stateroom keyless entry feature, allowing guests to unlock their cabin doors using their smartphones.
6. Real-Time Account Management
Keeping track of onboard expenses is effortless with the app. You can:
- View your SeaPass account balance in real time.
- Check charges from restaurants, bars, and onboard shops.
- Pay off your balance through the app before disembarkation.
Onboard Connectivity: Surfing the Web at Sea
Royal Caribbean offers Voom Internet, known as the “fastest internet at sea.” Whether you need Wi-Fi for casual browsing, video streaming, or remote work, Voom provides different package options to meet your needs.
Voom Internet Plans
1. Voom Surf & Stream Package (Best for Heavy Users)
- Fast enough for video streaming (Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, etc.).
- Supports video calls via Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype.
- Ideal for remote work or travelers who want uninterrupted high-speed access.
2. Voom Surf Package (Best for Casual Users)
- Suitable for social media, email, and web browsing.
- Allows messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage.
- More affordable but doesn’t support streaming services.
How to Get the Best Deal on Voom Internet
- Pre-Purchase Before Your Cruise: Buying an internet package via the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner before your sailing date usually results in a discounted rate.
- Bundle with Beverage Packages: Sometimes, Royal Caribbean offers deals that combine Voom internet with drink packages, which can lead to additional savings.
- Share the Plan: If you’re traveling with family or friends, consider sharing an internet plan (available on multi-device packages).
How Reliable is Internet at Sea?
Royal Caribbean has invested heavily in its internet infrastructure, particularly with Starlink-powered Wi-Fi on select ships. While speeds are generally excellent, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Speeds can vary based on location (strongest near ports, weaker in the open ocean).
- Peak times (evenings) may cause slower speeds due to higher user demand.
- Streaming and gaming performance may be affected if bandwidth is congested.
Pro Tips for Using the Royal Caribbean App & Internet
1. Download the App Before You Board
Ensure you have the latest version of the app before your trip. Once on the ship, downloading apps can be difficult due to limited connectivity.
2. Enable Airplane Mode & Connect to Ship Wi-Fi
To avoid roaming charges, put your phone in Airplane Mode and connect to the Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi network (even if you’re not purchasing an internet package, you can still use the app for free!).
3. Set Up Notifications
Turn on push notifications so you don’t miss important announcements like show reservations, itinerary changes, or excursion reminders.
4. Save Screenshots of Your Reservations
If you’re worried about internet access, take screenshots of your dining reservations, excursion tickets, and show confirmations for offline reference.
5. Log Off When Not in Use
To conserve data usage, log out of Voom when you don’t need it. This prevents unnecessary bandwidth usage and extends your plan.
Final Thoughts: Is Royal Caribbean’s Tech Worth It?
Absolutely! Royal Caribbean has done an excellent job integrating technology into their cruise experience. The Royal Caribbean app is a must-have tool that simplifies everything from boarding to planning daily activities, while Voom Internet ensures you stay connected whenever needed.
By planning ahead, pre-purchasing Wi-Fi packages, and utilizing the app’s features, you can make the most of your cruise without hassle. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a social media enthusiast, or just someone who likes convenience, Royal Caribbean’s onboard technology is well worth exploring.
Ready to book your next Royal Caribbean cruise? Make sure you take full advantage of these tech features to enhance your voyage!