If you’ve just booked your first cruise with Royal Caribbean—or are thinking about it—you’re in for an unforgettable experience. I’ve sailed with Royal several times, from short getaways to full two-week itineraries, and I still remember that mix of excitement and confusion on my first embarkation day. Cruises are a different kind of travel: part resort, part city, part moving experience. And if you’re not prepared, you can miss out on a lot.
Here’s a no-nonsense guide packed with tips that’ll help you cruise smarter, spend better, and enjoy more—without getting overwhelmed.
1. Check In Early (Seriously, Do It)
Royal Caribbean lets you check in via the app up to 45 days before your cruise. Don’t wait. Early check-in means better boarding times and less chaos at the terminal. Upload your documents, snap a passport-style photo, and pick your arrival window. The app becomes your digital cruise buddy—boarding pass, daily schedule, and restaurant reservations all in one place.
2. Pack Like a Pro (And Don’t Forget a Carry-On)
Yes, there’s laundry on board, but you don’t want to spend your sea days waiting on a dryer. Pack smart: wrinkle-free clothes, layers for unpredictable air conditioning, and a pair of comfy walking shoes for excursions.
Your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom for hours after you board. Keep a carry-on with essentials—swimsuit, sunscreen, medications, phone charger, and anything valuable. That way, you’re ready to hit the pool while everyone else waits around in their jeans.
3. Know What’s Free (And What’s Not)
Royal Caribbean offers a ton of included amenities—but not everything is free. Meals at the main dining room and Windjammer buffet are included, as are shows, pools, and many activities. Specialty dining, drinks (including soda), Wi-Fi, and excursions will cost you.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to indulge, buy a drink or dining package before you board. It’s always cheaper online than once you’re on the ship.
4. Don’t Skip the Muster Drill—but Do It the Easy Way
Royal Caribbean’s eMuster system lets you complete most of the safety drill on your phone. Watch the videos, listen to the safety horn, then check in at your muster station once you board. It’s painless and way better than the old-school group drills. Just don’t skip it—it’s mandatory and they’ll chase you down if you don’t complete it.
5. Explore the Ship on Day One
These ships are floating cities. It’s easy to spend half your cruise discovering new places you could’ve been hanging out all week. After lunch, take time to explore. Find the Solarium (adults-only), locate your dining room, and walk the entire top deck. You’ll get your bearings, and probably stumble across a bar, lounge, or hidden nook you’ll fall in love with.
6. Make Reservations Early—Even for the Free Stuff
Royal Caribbean’s shows are Broadway-level good—and they fill up. Use the app to book reservations for entertainment and dining as soon as you board (or earlier, if your sailing allows it). Even free events like comedy shows, ice skating, and laser tag often require a booking.
Want to try something like the North Star or iFly on Quantum-class ships? Lock that in early. Spots vanish fast.
7. Embrace the Sea Days
First-time cruisers often focus on ports, but sea days are where the ship shines. This is when you try the FlowRider, catch a show, lounge by the pool, or finally open that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Royal Caribbean packs the schedule with trivia games, dance classes, craft sessions, and more. Get a drink, try a new activity, or do absolutely nothing. You’re on vacation.
8. Be Smart About Shore Excursions
Royal Caribbean offers great excursions, but they’re not your only option. You can often find cheaper, smaller-group tours through third-party operators—just make sure they guarantee a return to the ship on time.
Want to save even more? Some ports (like Nassau or Cozumel) are easy to explore on your own. Do a little research and decide what’s worth a splurge, and what’s better as a DIY adventure.
9. Budget for the Extras—They Add Up Fast
Cruising feels all-inclusive, but many extras creep in. Drinks, specialty coffee, spa treatments, arcade credits, and photos all come with a price tag. Set a daily budget and keep an eye on your onboard account. The app updates it in real-time.
Pro tip: You can ask Guest Services for a printout of your charges any time. Better to catch surprises early than get hit with sticker shock on disembarkation day.
10. Disembarkation Isn’t a Race—Unless You Have a Flight
The final morning can be a bit of a cattle call. If you have an early flight, go for self-assist disembarkation (carry your own bags and get off first). If not, chill. Have breakfast, grab coffee, and wait for your group to be called.
Don’t forget to check your onboard account the night before, and leave cash tips for any standout crew members—they hustle hard all week, and it shows.
Final Thought
Cruising with Royal Caribbean for the first time is like stepping into an alternate travel universe—one where your hotel moves, meals appear like magic, and there’s always something to do. It can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Use these tips, stay flexible, and lean into the fun.
You’ll come back relaxed, well-fed, and probably already browsing your next cruise.
Need help choosing your first Royal Caribbean itinerary or ship? Drop a comment or send a message—happy to share some picks based on your travel style.