Why waste hours at the airport when you could continue your holiday on board for the last day? Royal Caribbean have recently rolled out the Stay Awhile programme, you can make the most of your last day by remaining on the ship and enjoying its fantastic amenities for a little longer.
Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile Programme
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This is a relatively new offering, and having cruised with Royal Caribbean for 18 years, we know that, historically, guests had to leave the ship early. I have always hated the last morning; it feels so stressful and like a rush, especially if you have a late flight. But this programme is a game-changer for those with later flights, giving you extra time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Enjoy More Time on Your Royal Caribbean Ship with Stay Awhile
If you have a later flight, the Stay Awhile option is ideal. It allows you to leave the ship at your convenience—up to 90 minutes before the ship departs the port again. While you enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch at Windjammer Café, unwind at the spa, or take in the last bit of relaxation by the pool, the staff will take care of your luggage, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Signing Up for the Stay Awhile Programme
You can sign up for Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile before your cruise via the Cruise Planner or while onboard at the Shore Excursions desk, however, if you plan to book while on the ship, you must do so at least 48 hours before arriving at your final destination port.
Availability of the Stay Awhile Programme in Europe
This programme is only offered on select European sailings; we are hoping this gets rolled out to other sailings. Check for availability in advance through the App or Cruise Planner; ours is under onboard activities or enquire at the Shore Excursions desk during your cruise.
Cost of the Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile Programme
Pricing details for Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile can be found on the Cruise Planner before sailing or at the Shore Excursions desk once onboard. For our sailing departing from Barcelona in April, the cost is £38.92 GBP per adult and £30.97 GBP per child.
Payment Methods Onboard During Your Extended Stay
Once the cruise officially ends, SeaPass cards will no longer be valid for purchases. Any expenses during your extended stay must be paid using a credit card.
Handling of Luggage for Royal Caribbean’s Stay Awhile Guests
Guests using the Stay Awhile programme will be given specific luggage tags. They must place their bags outside their stateroom between 7:00 pm and midnight. The luggage will then be stored at the pier terminal, ready for collection when guests disembark.
Leaving and Returning to the Ship on Turnaround Day
Once a guest has disembarked under the Stay Awhile programme, they cannot re-board the ship. But you want to squeeze every last moment out of your Royal Caribbean cruise, the Stay Awhile programme offers the perfect opportunity to do just that.
