As someone who loves to travel, I’m always on the lookout for the best deals and experiences. One of my favorite ways to explore new destinations is by taking a cruise. And when it comes to cruise lines, Royal Caribbean is one of my top choices. But what about the cost? Is everything included in the price of a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Well, the answer is both yes and no. When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll have access to a variety of amenities and activities that are included in the price of your ticket. These can include ship accommodations, ocean transportation, most meals onboard, and most entertainment onboard. However, there are also certain services and items that are not included in the cruise price and will require additional fees.
In this article, I’ll break down exactly what’s included in a Royal Caribbean cruise fare and what you can expect to pay extra for. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding the cost breakdown of a Royal Caribbean cruise can help you plan and budget for your next adventure on the high seas.
What’s Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
Accommodations
When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, your ship accommodations are included in the price. You’ll have a comfortable and well-appointed stateroom to call your own, complete with all the amenities you need to make your stay enjoyable.
Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from a range of stateroom categories, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite.
Food and Drinks
Most meals onboard are included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare, with a variety of dining options available to suit every taste and budget. From casual cafes and buffets to specialty restaurants and room service, there’s something for everyone.
In addition, some beverages are included in the cruise price, such as tap water, milk, tea, coffee, lemonade, iced tea, flavored waters, and juices at breakfast (not fresh squeezed). Alcoholic beverages, soda, and bottled water are available for purchase.
Entertainment
Live shows, movies, music, game shows, and other onboard entertainment are included in the cost of your cruise. Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of entertainment options to keep you entertained throughout your voyage, including Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, live music, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing, a movie under the stars, or a family-friendly game show, there’s always something to do on a Royal Caribbean cruise.
Activities
Most onboard activities are included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare, including pools, fitness centers, surf simulators, and rock climbing. Whether you want to relax by the pool, hit the gym, or try your hand at a new sport, there’s something for everyone.
In addition, Royal Caribbean offers a range of shore excursions at an additional cost, allowing you to explore each port of call in depth.
Kids and Family
Royal Caribbean offers some of the best kids programs in the industry, with activities and entertainment for children of all ages. From toddlers to teens, there’s something for everyone, including supervised play areas, video games, and age-appropriate activities.
In addition, Royal Caribbean offers family-friendly dining options, as well as special events and activities for families to enjoy together.
Service and Amenities
When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, you can expect top-notch service and amenities throughout your voyage. From attentive staff to luxurious spa treatments, Royal Caribbean goes above and beyond to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
In addition, the cruise line offers a range of onboard shops, internet cafes, and other amenities to make your stay as convenient as possible.
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What’s Not Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
Gratuities
While your cruise fare covers many amenities and services, gratuities are not included. Gratuities are a way to show appreciation for the hard work of the staff and crew members who make your cruise experience memorable.
Royal Caribbean recommends a gratuity amount of $14.50 per person, per day for guests staying in standard accommodations and $17.50 per person, per day for guests staying in suites. These gratuities cover your stateroom attendant, dining room staff, and other housekeeping services.
Specialty Dining
If you want to dine in one of Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants, such as Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, or Izumi, you will need to pay an additional fee.
These restaurants offer a unique dining experience with a wider selection of menu items and higher quality ingredients. Prices vary depending on the restaurant and menu items you choose.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic drinks are not included in your cruise fare. You can purchase drinks individually or purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package. The drink prices are higher than you’ll find back home, so if you plan on enjoying a few drinks during your cruise, it may be worth considering a drink package.
Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages to fit different preferences and budgets.
Spa and Salon Services
If you want to pamper yourself with a spa treatment, massage, or salon service, you will need to pay an additional fee. These services are not included in your cruise fare. Prices vary depending on the service and duration.
Shore Excursions
While your cruise fare covers the cost of transportation and accommodations, shore excursions are not included. Shore excursions are a great way to explore the ports of call and experience local culture.
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of shore excursions to fit different interests and activity levels. Prices vary depending on the excursion and duration.
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How to Get the Most Out of Your Royal Caribbean Cruise
Booking Tips
When booking your Royal Caribbean cruise, there are a few tips to keep in mind to make sure you get the most out of your experience. First, consider booking directly with Royal Caribbean to take advantage of any special promotions or discounts.
Additionally, be sure to book early to secure the best stateroom location and to have a wider selection of shore excursions to choose from.
Another tip is to consider booking your next Royal Caribbean cruise while onboard. This can offer significant savings and perks, such as onboard credit or discounted deposits. You can also transfer your booking to your travel agent once you get home.
Packing Tips
When packing for your Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s important to pack smartly to ensure you have everything you need without overpacking. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen for days spent on the ship’s deck.
Additionally, pack formal attire for any formal nights or events, and consider bringing a small daypack for excursions and port days.
Another helpful tip is to pack a power strip or surge protector to ensure you have enough outlets for all of your devices. This can be especially helpful if you have multiple people sharing a stateroom.
Onboard Tips
Once onboard your Royal Caribbean cruise, there are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your experience. First, be sure to download the Royal Caribbean app to stay up-to-date on daily activities, dining options, and shore excursions. This can also help you make reservations for shows and dining ahead of time, which can save you time and hassle later on.
Another tip is to take advantage of the ship’s included activities and entertainment options, such as performances in the Royal Theater or AquaTheater, live music, and comedy shows. Don’t forget to also try out the ship’s various dining options, including specialty restaurants and room service.
Finally, be sure to take advantage of any shore excursions offered by Royal Caribbean. These can offer unique experiences and insights into the local culture and history of the ports you visit.
What is Typically Included in a Cruise Package?
Royal Caribbean is known for providing an array of inclusive amenities in their cruise packages. Although it may vary depending on the ship and itinerary, there are several standard inclusions that guests can expect to receive during their voyage. Accommodations are, of course, included.
Rooms range from cozy interior cabins to luxurious suites and will vary in size depending on the ship. Dining is also inclusive on Royal Caribbean cruises, with a variety of restaurants and buffets offering diverse cuisine options to suit every palate. Entertainment is a big element of the Royal Caribbean experience, and guests will never be short of options.
The theatre offers Broadway-style shows, while various lounges provide live music and karaoke. Adventure-seekers will also be pleased to know that activities such as rock climbing, mini-golf, and ice-skating are all included options. For relaxation, the onboard spa and fitness center offer additional amenities, including a pool and sauna. However, some spa treatments, such as massages and facials, may incur an extra cost.
Overall, while not every single thing is included, Royal Caribbean goes above and beyond to make sure that their guests receive exceptional value for their money. Is Everything All Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise? No, not everything, but it certainly comes close.
Are Water Bottles Free on Cruise?
The answer is both yes and no. Yes, there is water available onboard for free, but it is typically from a tap and may not always be easily accessible. However, bottled water is not included in the cruise fare and must be purchased separately.
If you prefer to drink bottled water, it’s best to bring your own supply onboard with you. You can also choose to purchase a water package, which includes a certain number of bottles that will be delivered to your cabin. Another option is the beverage package, which will include bottled water as well as other beverages like soda, beer, and cocktails.
While water may not be included in the standard fare, there are plenty of other inclusions and extras that make a Royal Caribbean cruise experience unforgettable. From delicious dining options to thrilling entertainment and exhilarating activities, there is something for everyone onboard. So, Is Everything All Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise? Not necessarily, but there is plenty to enjoy nonetheless.
Conclusion
Royal Caribbean Cruise is more than just a trip on the ocean. It is an experience that offers a fascinating array of inclusions and extras that set it apart from any other vacation. With so much to explore, it’s easy to see why so many people choose this type of cruise for their next adventure.
From the endless activities and entertainment options to the mouth-watering dining experiences and breathtaking destinations, this cruise has something for everyone.
So, is everything all included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise? While there are some things that may require an additional fee, the value and quality of the overall experience make it an unforgettable journey that is worth every penny. Don’t settle for an ordinary vacation. Give yourself the unforgettable adventure of a lifetime with a Royal Caribbean Cruise.
Read More:
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- Are the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Worth It?
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