Royal Caribbean is one of the world’s most popular cruise lines, known for its innovative ships, exciting itineraries, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a loyal Crown & Anchor Society member, understanding what makes Royal Caribbean unique can help you make the most of your trip. From the adrenaline-pumping activities onboard to exclusive perks like Perfect Day at CocoCay, here are 10 essential things to know before you set sail.
1. Ship Selection is Key
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Royal Caribbean ships vary significantly in size and features. Icon and Oasis Class ships are perfect for families and adventure seekers with carousels, zip lines, and aqua theatres. Smaller ships, like those in the Vision Class, offer a more intimate experience.
2. Book Early for the Best Deals
Booking early is crucial, especially for unique staterooms like family suites or balcony cabins. Royal Caribbean often offers early-booking discounts, onboard credits, and special promotions. Our 2026 cruise has almost doubled in price since we booked it a year ago, and this is a common theme.
3. The Key Program
The Key is Royal Caribbean’s optional paid programme that’s designed to give you a “VIP-lite” experience onboard. Think of it as upgraded convenience rather than full luxury. You’re not getting a suite or concierge perks, but you are getting priority handling in the areas where queues typically build up.
What’s Included in The Key
The exact benefits can vary slightly by ship, but typically it gives you:
- Priority embarkation at the port (you skip the longest check-in lines).
- Special welcome lunch in the main dining room on boarding day, often featuring Chops Grille menu items.
- Internet access: One Surf & Stream Wi-Fi package per person, which is where much of the value comes from.
- Private hours for activities like the FlowRider, iFly, North Star or rock climbing — less waiting in queues.
- Priority show seating in main theatre and entertainment venues (you still need to arrive before showtime).
4. Dining Options are Extensive
From casual options like Windjammer Café to upscale dining at Chops Grille or Wonderland, there’s a culinary experience for every taste. Make reservations for specialty restaurants in advance, as they can fill up quickly.
- Included dining (no extra cost) such as the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Buffet, Café Promenade, and pool-deck snacks.
- Speciality restaurants you can book for a treat, like Chops Grille, Giovanni’s, Izumi, and Playmakers.
- Casual sweets and caffeine stops, from Sorrento’s Pizza to Starbucks (where charges apply).
Menus change regularly, and there really is something for everyone, from picky kids to adventurous foodies. You can keep things casual and straightforward, or plan a few special meals to make the trip feel extra memorable.
5. Amazing Onboard Entertainment
Expect Broadway-style productions (Hairspray, Mamma Mia), high-diving shows, and ice-skating performances. Reserve your seats for these shows via the Cruise Planner app as soon as possible.
Broadway Shows You Will Find On Royal Caribbean Ships
- Oasis of the Seas – CATS
- Allure of the Seas – Mamma Mia!
- Symphony of the Seas – Hairspray
- Star of the Seas, Back -To The Future
- Anthem of the Seas – We Will Rock You
- Liberty of the Seas – Saturday Night Fever
- Legend of the Seas – Will Debut Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
6. Perfect Day at CocoCay
If your itinerary includes a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private island, CocoCay, don’t miss out! Highlights include the Thrill Waterpark, hot air balloon rides, and relaxing cabanas. Some activities are free, while others require pre-booking.
7. Kids and Teens Are Well-Catered
Royal Caribbean offers Adventure Ocean for kids and teens, complete with age-appropriate activities, dedicated spaces, and even escape rooms. Perfect for families needing some downtime.
8. Drinks Packages Save Money
Whether it’s soft drinks or cocktails, Royal Caribbean’s drink packages can be cost-effective if you plan on indulging. Look out for discounts on these packages when you log into your account pre-cruise.
9. Wi-Fi with VOOM
Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet is one of the fastest at sea. Perfect for staying connected or streaming. Pre-purchase for the best deals, especially if you’re using it for work or social media.
10. Royal Up for Upgrades
Royal Up is Royal Caribbean’s bidding system that allows you to upgrade your cabin after you’ve already booked. Suppose your sailing has available cabins in higher categories. In that case, you’ll receive an email invitation to place a bid for an upgrade, for example, from an inside room to an oceanview, balcony, suite, or even the luxury suite categories.
You choose how much you’re willing to pay, and your bid is either accepted or rejected based on availability and demand. It’s essentially a silent auction: you won’t know what others are bidding.
Why People Love Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean has a bit of a reputation for being the fun, high-energy cruise line. It’s known for ships that feel like floating resorts, packed with things to do for all ages, whether you want adventure or just a sun lounger and a cocktail.
Families love the big onboard attractions, like surf simulators, climbing walls, waterparks and even ice rinks and zip lines on some ships. Foodies get plenty of choice too, from relaxed pizza and buffets to steakhouses and speciality dining. And the entertainment is a huge draw: think Broadway-style musicals, big theatre shows and ice and aqua spectaculars that you genuinely wouldn’t expect to see at sea.
Despite all the excitement, Royal still does the traditional cruising elements well, attentive service, well-planned itineraries and ships that are easy to navigate. It’s a line that suits first-timers and loyal returning cruisers alike, because there’s always something new to try, but you can also find a favourite bar or quiet corner and settle in.
