You’re eager to know everything that is included in Royal Caribbean’s cruise ticket price, and this article has got you covered! From accommodations in a private room with a bathroom to gratuities for service-oriented crew, there’s a lot that comes with your cruise fare. Most meals and snacks are included as well, with a variety of dining options like the main dining room and buffet. While there may be additional add-ons such as drink packages and dining packages that come with an extra charge, you have the option to give additional tips to the crew members for excellent service. Plus, there are plenty of activities, shows, and signature experiences included in your cruise fare. So get ready for an incredible vacation experience on a Royal Caribbean cruise!
Now that you’ve booked your Royal Caribbean cruise, you may be wondering what’s included in your cruise fare and what will cost you extra. This article aims to answer all your questions and provide a detailed breakdown of what comes with your ticket price. You’ll discover that accommodations, most meals and snacks, gratuities, access to pools and outdoor areas, and a range of activities and shows are all included. However, there are certain add-ons, specialty dining options, and additional services that come at an extra cost. Don’t worry though, as Royal Caribbean offers great value for your money, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable vacation experience on their cruises!
Accommodations and Gratuities
When booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, you can expect to have accommodations in a private room with a bathroom included in your ticket. This means that you will have your own space for the duration of your cruise, without having to share a bathroom or any amenities with other guests. The size, amenities, and layout of your room will vary depending on the type of cabin you book, but the basic inclusion of a private room and bathroom remains the same.
In terms of gratuities, Royal Caribbean offers two options. You can choose to prepay your gratuities prior to your cruise or have them automatically charged on a daily basis to your seapass account. The gratuity amount is $14.50 per guest per day for guests in a standard cabin, and $17.50 per guest per day for guests staying in a grand suite or above. In certain countries like Australia, the gratuities are already included in the cruise fare. It’s important to note that any purchases or services rendered on board, such as drinks or dining at specialty restaurants, will have gratuities automatically added at the time of purchase.
While gratuities are already included in the cruise fare, it’s worth mentioning that you have the option to give additional tips to crew members for excellent service. Even if crew members receive an automatic gratuity, you can still choose to give them extra gratuities as a token of your appreciation. Whether it’s a dollar here or a dollar there, you have the flexibility to show your gratitude for outstanding service.
Dining Options
When it comes to dining options, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of choices to suit everyone’s tastes. The main dining room and buffet are included in the cruise fare, giving you the opportunity to enjoy delicious meals throughout the day. The main dining room is the hub of dining on a Royal Caribbean cruise and is open for breakfast and dinner every day, as well as lunch on sea days. The Windjammer buffet is another popular option, offering a wide assortment of cuisines, dishes, and flavors. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day.
In addition to the main dining room and buffet, Royal Caribbean also provides casual venues with quick service meals. These grab-and-go spots, such as Cafe Promenade, El Loco Fresh, and Sorrento’s Pizza, offer convenient options for a quick bite throughout the day. The specific grab-and-go venues may vary depending on the ship you’re sailing on, but they are all included in the cruise fare.
On Oasis-class ships, you’ll even find Johnny Rockets, a classic American diner, available for breakfast at no extra cost. However, lunch and dinner at Johnny Rockets do come at an additional charge. Royal Caribbean takes pride in offering extensive complimentary dining options, ensuring that you have a wide selection of cuisines and flavors to choose from. The food quality in all dining venues, whether complimentary or specialty, is excellent, ensuring that you have a memorable dining experience.
While most meals and snacks are included in the cruise fare, there are some extra cost items in the main dining room on formal nights. For example, items like filet mignon or lobster may come with an additional charge on non-formal nights. Additionally, pizza is available at some restaurants and buffets throughout the cruise, and soft serve ice cream is included near the pool deck. If you’re looking for a hand-scooped ice cream experience, you can find it in the Windjammer and main dining room. However, it’s important to note that specialty dining options, offering different cuisines and an enhanced ambiance, are available for an extra cost.
Beverage Packages and Tap Water
When it comes to beverages, Royal Caribbean offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink packages for guests to purchase. The packages provide unlimited access to a wide variety of beverages, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks throughout your cruise. The Deluxe Beverage Package includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, while the Refreshment Package includes all beverages without alcohol. There is also a Soda Package, which includes unlimited soda throughout your cruise.
However, it’s worth noting that tap water on board a Royal Caribbean ship is of high quality and safe to drink. In fact, it’s often better than tap water found in many homes. This means that you can enjoy tap water, as well as other complimentary beverages like tea, coffee, lemonade, iced tea, milk, and non-fresh-squeezed juices, without any additional cost. These drinks are available at various locations on the ship, such as Cafe Promenade and the Windjammer or main dining room.
Moreover, Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring up to two bottles of wine per stateroom on embarkation day. If you choose to bring your own wine, you may be subject to a corkage fee if it’s opened in a public venue. Additionally, you’re allowed to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda or bottled water, with you on embarkation day. This allows you to have your preferred beverages with you during your cruise without any extra cost.
Room Service and Childcare
Royal Caribbean provides 24/7 room service for its guests, allowing you to order food or beverages to your room at any time. However, it’s important to note that there is a fee per order for room service. This means that while you can enjoy the convenience of having meals or snacks delivered to your room, there will be an additional cost associated with it.
For guests traveling with children, Royal Caribbean offers the Adventure Ocean program. This program caters to kids aged 3-17 and provides a wide range of activities and entertainment options to keep them engaged and entertained throughout the cruise. The Adventure Ocean program is included in the cruise fare and offers age-appropriate activities, supervised by trained staff members.
However, it’s worth noting that there may be an additional cost for late-night care in the Adventure Ocean program. If you require childcare services during late hours, such as after 10 pm, there may be a fee associated with it. Royal Caribbean also provides the Royal Babies and Tots program for children aged 6 months to 36 months. This program offers interactive playgroups for parents and their little ones, as well as a nursery, which is available for an additional cost.
Activities and Entertainment
Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options that are included in the cruise fare. From Broadway shows to signature activities, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to have fun and create lasting memories during your cruise. The majority of cruise activities and shows, including Broadway shows, are included, giving you the chance to enjoy world-class entertainment without any additional cost.
Royal Caribbean is known for its signature activities, such as the FlowRider, rock climbing wall, and skydiving simulator, which are also included in the cruise fare. These activities provide thrilling and unique experiences for guests of all ages. Additionally, the fitness center and jogging track are included, allowing you to maintain your fitness routine while onboard. If you’re looking for extra fee classes or spa treatments and salon services, those are available for an additional cost.
Access to pools and outdoor areas is included, offering a refreshing way to relax and soak up the sun. However, it’s important to note that some areas may be reserved for suite guests, providing them with exclusive access to certain amenities. Overall, Royal Caribbean ensures that there are plenty of inclusive activities and entertainment options for guests to enjoy throughout their cruise.
Additional Costs
While Royal Caribbean provides a wide range of inclusive offerings, there are some additional costs to consider during your cruise. These costs can vary depending on your preferences and choices. Some of the common additional costs include gambling, shopping, excursions, and internet access.
If you enjoy gambling, there are casinos onboard where you can try your luck. However, any expenses incurred at the casino will be an additional cost. Shopping is also available onboard, with various shops offering a range of merchandise. If you’re interested in purchasing souvenirs or any other items, be prepared for additional costs.
Excursions are another aspect that may come with an extra fee. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of shore excursions at each port, allowing you to explore the destinations and partake in different activities. The cost of excursions can vary depending on the destination and the specific activities included.
Internet access is available onboard, but it does come at an additional cost. If you need to stay connected during your cruise, be prepared to pay for internet packages. It’s worth noting that staying connected may be more expensive at sea compared to onshore internet services.
In addition to these examples, there may be other additional costs that come up during your cruise. It’s important to be aware of these costs and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
In conclusion, booking a Royal Caribbean cruise offers a range of inclusions and choices to suit your preferences. From comfortable accommodations to a variety of dining options and inclusive activities, there is something for everyone. While there are additional costs for certain amenities, Royal Caribbean strives to provide an excellent value for your cruise fare, making it an ideal choice for a memorable vacation.