ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE: Planning for Your Adventure

Please be sure to review the Royal Caribbean Boarding Requirements FAQ webpage, where you can learn important information about your cruise, including any current health and safety measures that may be in place. This page is updated directly by Royal Caribbean Cruise Line so the information here will always be the most up-to-date!

What’s Included with My Cruise Purchase?

Onboard stateroom accommodations (your cabin), ocean transportation (your cruise), water/coffee/tea/lemonade, most entertainment and recreation onboard, most meals, and Royal Caribbean’s commitment to guest satisfaction!

What’s Not Included?

Travel insurance, specialty dining, spa services, gambling, art auctions, merchandise purchases, shore excursions, photographs, arcade, internet access, medical services, transportation to and from the port, port parking, laundry services, ship to shore phone calls, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and specialty beverages. Some activities on Royal Caribbean’s private islands are extra.  Ask a staff member if you’re ever unsure!

Final Payment

Be sure to mark a calendar with your Final Payment Date which can be found on your reservation invoice– this date comes 90, 75 or 60 days before sailing date depending on the length of your cruise.  This is the deadline date for paying off the remaining balance on your cruise and you will then be confirmed as an official passenger on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines!

You will want to create a My Cruises account online as soon as possible. You will use this account to access the cruise planner to make plans for your cruise.  Once your cruise reservation is confirmed with deposit you can begin exploring shore excursions for each port and entertainment options on the ship. You can begin making reservations for all of those awesome activities you discovered as early as 6 months in advance of sailing, though sometimes the full list of options may not be available until 120 days out. Oasis and Quantum class ships can even pre-book shows which is strongly recommended!!!

To set up your online account and link your reservation, go to:

• Royal Caribbean Create an Account
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner Video

What is “Online Check-In” and What are “e-Docs?”

“Online check-in” is a pre-cruise procedure in which you’ll complete necessary cruise paperwork online: you’ll print a boarding pass (called “e-docs,”), luggage tags, and a SetSail signature page (for your room key) to save lots of time when boarding the ship. It’s all done in your My Cruises account after final payment.  Online check-in opens 30 days before sailing and must be completed no later than 3 days prior to sailing and if you prefer to use the Royal Caribbean mobile app you can access your SetSail pass electronically too.

Vacation Protection Insurance

It’s not just cancellation insurance. Today’s plans include insurance for your whole trip: Personal Property, Baggage, Medical, Emergency Evacuation, and additionally 24-hour Travel Assistance. Of course, it still includes the “Cancel for Any Reason” feature which is very popular. Most insurance policies do not include coverage while traveling outside of the US, so Insurance is always recommended. It’s a great way to protect your investment and provides peace of mind at a low cost! You can add the plan any time before Final Payment. we also offer insurance through a preferred third-party vendor that might be more affordable or offer benefits that you might prefer, to request a quote comparison, please email your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent.

When Should I Plan to Arrive?

Arrive at the port the day before embarkation day (the day your ship leaves the home port). Explore the port area (it’s a destination too!) or relax without the stress of delayed or cancelled flights and sudden traffic incidents. Your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent can easily arrange airfare and a pre/post-cruise hotel through the cruise line at competitive rates! Please be sure to read the Royal Caribbean Cruise Boarding Policy for more information.

Passports are highly recommended for cruises but not required on every sailing. Please check the Vital Information section of your reservation for information and links to websites that can provide more details.  It is each cruise passenger’s responsibility to make sure they have the proper identification documents needed to board.  If your cruise does require a passport, please ensure that the name on the photo page matches the name on your cruise reservation and is valid for 6 months after travel.

If your cruise does not require a Passport, you will be required to provide proof of citizenship in the form of an original/certified copy of a government issued birth certificate (with raised seal and signature), and a laminated government-issued photo ID (driver’s license) for each passenger age 16+ that matches the name on the cruise reservation. If the name on your ID does not match the name on your Birth Certificate and/or Driver’s License, you may be asked to present a supporting document (i.e. a Marriage License, which shows your maiden and married name). It’s heartbreaking to see someone left behind in the terminal, denied boarding for not having the right ID.

Visit Royal Caribbean Travel Documentation to ensure that you take the necessary ID, especially passengers who are not natural-born US citizens or carry a birth certificate from Puerto Rico.

Children traveling without both birth parents or children with a different last name than their parent may be required to show additional notarized consent.

Be advised: though Passports are not required in order to board many sailings, they are strongly recommended and would be required in the event you must return to the United States by air.

Visas

Some countries require that any American passenger departing the ship obtain a Travel Visa and/or be booked on a cruise line shore excursion (Russia, Australia, China, India, and Cuba for example) in order to exit the ship.

Visa requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens are listed on your Booking Confirmation under “Notices,” if applicable. You’ll want to check if an Visa Application Kit is needed for your sailing. All other nationalities, including those with U.S. or Canadian resident status, should contact me ASAP for info in obtaining the appropriate documents.

STEP/Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

International cruise passengers are strongly encouraged to register each trip with the US Dept. of Consular Affairs Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP). By signing up you’ll be notified of new travel advisories and pertinent tourist information. Plus, registering for this free service by the US Dept. of State also enables them to better assist you during an emergency.

Daytime: The Windjammer Café is a complimentary buffet open during meal times. The Main Dining Room is open for a table-service breakfast, lunch, and multi-course dinner. Room service is available 24/7 (for a small fee).

Evening (must choose 1 at the time of booking and options are early, late or My Time):

·       Set Dining Times:  Generally the “Early Seating” is near 6pm and the “Late Seating” is near 8pm, though they vary by ship/itinerary. Guests will keep the same wait staff and dining companions throughout the cruise when booked with a set dining time.

·       My Time Dining: For more flexibility, this option is great for guests who prefer to arrive at any time they’d like and receive the next available table and server each evening. Just be sure to check your activity guide for open times. You can also pre-reserve specific days and times online in your My Cruises account. If you prefer not to wait, it is recommended to make reservations for My Time dining prior to sailing.  These reservations can be modified onboard if needed.

·      If you are unsure of the dining option that you selected, please contact your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent so that they can confirm your preference.  You have the option to also reserve a table for 2 to up to 8 guests.

Signature Dining:

Each ship offers a variety of optional dining experiences for an additional fee (Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Table for example). You’ll want to begin making reservations for these restaurants as soon as your Final Payment has been processed. Try at least one – they really do make your cruise experience extra special!

Need a specific date/time for your special dining experience? Be sure to reserve in your My Cruises profile 90-60 days prior to sailing.

Daytime:  Casual/resort wear is the norm during daytime hours. Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses and sundresses are all perfect whether indoors or out. For lounging by the pool, pack bathing suits, cover-ups, and a pair of sandals. Don’t forget work-out clothes if you plan to use the fitness center, and long pants and socks if you’re sailing on a ship with ice skating onboard.

Evening: Cruises from 3-5 nights will have 1 Smart Casual and 1 Formal night, and cruises 6 nights+ have at least 1 Smart Casual and 2 Formal nights. Smart Casual: Jackets and ties for men, dresses or pantsuits for women. Formal:  cocktail dresses for women, suits and ties (or tuxedos) for men. A sweater or two is essential for chilly dining rooms. Shorts, T-shirts, and bathing suits are considered too casual in the dining rooms at dinner. More information can be found at Formal Dress Code

• Visit What to Pack for more details and notes for onshore attire.

There are SO many options at each port and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure!

—Visit RoyalCaribbean.com to search Shore Excursions, where you can browse by ship and sail date.

—Consider checking with your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent for a list of trusted third-party excursion vendors. These excursion companies are known for offering additional shore excursion possibilities, competitive rates, and a timely return to your ship.

Some favorites: cultural bus tours, snorkeling, hands-on experiences, and activities unique to a destination. Just about every port has their own version of ziplining, Segway tours, dolphin swims, and ATV excursions, so instead keep an eye out for unique geographical and historical sites (like Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, The Baths in Tortola, Mayan ruins in Mexico, St. Kitts Scenic Railway, etc.)

Dreaming of an all-inclusive beach day? Spending the afternoon at a beach-front resort? This is your chance! Ask your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent for Resort Day Pass options in the ports you’ll visit on this cruise and start dreaming of the fruity cocktail you’ll try first!

You’ll want to reserve shore excursions in My Cruises as early as 6 months in advance of sailing.  Please note that the complete list may not be available until 120 days before sailing.

Embarkation Day (Cruise Day 1)

Check-in time and ship departure (embarkation) time varies by home port and ship, but for most sailings Royal Caribbean’s check-in counters (in the cruise terminal building) open at 10:30am. Select a time as early as you can (early on the ship means more time to explore and relax!) and arrive no later than 2 hours before the scheduled embarkation time printed on your e-docs. Don’t forget to complete the Online Check-In process at least 3 days before Embarkation Day!

Muster 2.0

To ensure your health and safety onboard, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has officially launched an entirely new approach to delivering safety information to guests. This innovative program reimagines a process originally designed to address large groups of people into a faster, more personal approach that encourages higher levels of safety. With this enhanced experience, the essential safety information will be offered to guests through new “eMuster^TM” technology via your mobile devices, as well as on the interactive stateroom TVs. This new approach offers you the flexibility to complete this very important process at your leisure prior to setting sail, allowing you to jump right into your vacation uninterrupted.

Once onboard, each guest will be required to visit their assigned assembly station where a crew member will verify the completion of the safety requirements and will be available to answer any questions. All steps must be completed prior to the ship’s departure, as required by international maritime law.

Be sure to review the online information for Muster 2.0 for instructions on how to access via your mobile app or interactive stateroom TVs before departure.

Children’s Clubs

Royal Caribbean’s complimentary youth programs, “Adventure Ocean”, provide entertainment for all kids 3-17 years divided into age-appropriate programming (Kids 3-11 and Teens 12-17). If your children fall within these age ranges, don’t be surprised if they insist on spending LOTS of time in the Clubs. Most ships also have a “Royal Babies & Tots Nursery” (age 6-36 months) for daytime and evening drop-off at an hourly rate. Make sure to pre-register your children during the Online check-in process.

Stateroom Door Decorations

Decorating your stateroom door makes for a fun and memorable homecoming each night. Bring magnets, images printed on magnetic paper, or window cling to easily recognize your stateroom door. Other ideas include anniversary photos, wrapping paper, balloons, Veteran magnets, and more. Check Pinterest for ideas!

Health Concerns and Guests with Special Needs or Diets

Royal Caribbean ships provide quality service and a variety of accessible features to make your experience as relaxing and enjoyable as can be. Royal Caribbean meets sanitization standards as required by law. Frequent hand washing is strongly encouraged onboard for all passengers. Each ship is equipped with an Infirmary and Ship Doctor, available for an additional fee.

***Important: Please inform your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent of any new or existing pregnancy, routine dialysis, special needs, special dietary restrictions, or medical concerns so they can inform the appropriate department.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring?

Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Keep in mind that airline luggage policies may differ from cruise line luggage policies. Some items are permitted only in carry-on luggage (a CPAP machine, for example). Pack that carry-on wisely!

• What not to bring: Prohibited Items Policy
• Royal Caribbean Luggage Valet options for 7-night sailings or longer at select ports

Automatic Gratuities

As with most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean automatically adds the standard gratuities to each guest’s onboard account while sailing. These “tips” are divided among your Dining Room Server, Dining Room Assistant Server, and Dining Room Head Server as well as your Stateroom Host/Hostess. It is recommended to add prepaid gratuities during Final Payment because it’s one less thing to budget for on the ship – let your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent know if you’d like to pay in advance.

Am I Allowed to Bring Alcohol Onboard?

Guests can bring wine and champagne onto the ship on boarding day only: one (1) 750 ml bottle per adult of drinking age, in their carry-on luggage.  Beer, hard liquor, and fortified wines are not allowed to be brought onboard. Any beverages bought in duty-free shops on the ship or in port will be stored by the ship until the final day of the cruise. Check here for full details about Royal Caribbean’s alcohol policy.

Debarkation Day (Final Cruise Day)

Ships generally arrive back at their home port early in the morning, around 7am. The Captain will make an announcement soon after that for passengers to begin disembarkation. Believe It or not – ships are mostly empty by 9am so staff can clean and prep the ship for the next sailing!

You’ll have the chance to save $$$ on a future cruise OR earn onboard credit by making a reservation while still onboard. You don’t have to select a specific date for that next cruise, either! The incentives are usually pretty great, and, if you have booked your cruise thru a Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent, we hope that you will choose to list your Travel Agent on the reservation when talking with the sales staff!

• All staterooms provide soap, 2-in-1 shampoo, and a hairdryer. Pack hair conditioner and lotion, if desired.
• A clothing iron can be requested. Laundry service is available for a fee.
• Most ships have a mini-safe in all rooms. All vessels have safety deposit boxes onboard.
• Royal Caribbean takes pride in their high-speed Wi-Fi at sea. Consider adding a Wi-Fi package to your reservation if you must stay connected while away (or consider turning your device off all-together!)
• Be sure to download the Royal Caribbean app before your cruise! You can use the app to view the daily schedule, make reservations onboard, and so much more.
• All purchases made onboard are charged to your Onboard (SetSail) Account by scanning your room key card.
• Dining and beverage packages can be a great value. Your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent can help you decide if you’re unsure.
• Royal Caribbean often runs specials and discounts in the cruise planner for various extras. Please check your cruise planner often to make sure you don’t miss a discount.