rccl cruise asia

EXCITEMENT LIES EAST

Asia cruises.

See rural rice fields covered in mist and cosmopolitan cities awash in neon lights with a cruise to Asia.

For centuries, Asia has captivated and amazed visitors with its vibrant cities, traditional architecture, and exotic landscapes, offering a sensory overload of experiences. Explore a tropical paradise in Thailand, where you can snorkel in the Phi Phi Islands or zipline through the rainforest in Chiang Mai. Marvel at Beijing's Temple of Heaven or conquer the Great Wall of China. Embark on an Asia cruise and dive into the bustling energy of Tokyo, experiencing the pulse of Shibuya Crossing. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, savor street-food delights like nasi lemak—coconut rice with spicy sambal and fried chicken—or trek through mist-shrouded rice terraces in Vietnam. Discover the enchantment of Asia on an unforgettable cruise.

SAVE BIG WITH THESE ASIA CRUISE DEALS

Explore more while spending less with Asia cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

4 Nights Penang & Phuket

Starting from*

$599*/person

4 Nights Far East Cruise

$549*/person

BEST ASIA CRUISES

A cruise to Asia is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Asia onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

CITIES OF TOMORROW

Asia's sprawling metropolises are some of the world's most futuristic urban centers and Asia’s top attractions. Gaze at a forest of skyscrapers in Hong Kong, see mind-blowing 3-D art projections in Tokyo, or stroll through innovative billion-dollar gardens in Singapore with the best Asia cruises.

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Asia untamed.

Explore Malaysia's Taman Negara rainforest, or kayak past steep, moss-covered cliffsides in Vietnam's Halong Bay. Hike up red-pagoda-lined Nanshan Mountain near Shenzhen, China, or scale volcanic Mount Keelung in Taiwan. Step into a vast and varied continent with virtually endless natural wonders during your next cruise to Asia.

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Royal Caribbean International Asia Cruises

Royal Caribbean: 60% OFF 2nd Guest and Kids Free*

Royal Caribbean Asia cruises from $252*

Royal Caribbean Holiday cruises from $319*

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Bring the Far East just a little bit closer with a Royal Caribbean Asia Cruise. Adventure lies in each and every city and country you visit. You may find yourself exploring the relatively untouched eastern side of Borneo, holding secrets that only you may find. Get up close and personal with some Komodo dragons around the Komodo and Rinca Islands in Indonesia, or head to the deserted beaches filled with natural beauty and treasures of the sea. Test your palate in Bangkok with vibrant Thai flavors, or lose yourself in the streets of Hong Kong. Choose a Royal Caribbean Asia cruise and find your adventure.

Things to Do on an Asia Cruise with Royal Caribbean

The diversity of the Asia cruising region is highlighted by its variety of excursion activities. Royal Caribbean offers something for each type of cruiser. Nature enthusiasts: ride an elephant in Phuket or explore the caves and mangrove swamps of Malaysia. Culture lovers: enjoy the Essence of Gulangyu in Xiamen or an Evening Light Show & Night Tram to the Peak in Hong Kong. And that’s just a few of the options. Speak to one of our Asia experts and learn about the best excursion options for your next vacation.

• Cave & Mangrove Swamp (Langkawi, Malaysia) Grab your binoculars and some hike-worthy shoes for this expedition. Cruise the Mangrove Forest and visit a fish farm, where you can learn the craft. You’ll see some eagles on the way to the Bat Cave—a unique and awe-inspiring experience between the stalagmites and stalactites.  

• Elephant Riding Adventure (Phuket, Thailand) Head to the Elephant Camp for a day of laughs, wide-eyed excitement and smiles. You’ll see a baby elephant show and then take an elephant ride—quite the one-of-a-kind experience. Then, enjoy a tasty and informative trip to the Cashew Factory, an important Thailand product that is demonstrated in the regional cuisine. Finish of this enjoyable day with some shopping at a souvenir shop before heading back to the ship.  

• Phi Phi Island by Speedboat (Phuket, Thailand) Take to the sea by speedboat to explore the Maya Bay and its marvelous beach. Swim and snorkel in the crystal clear turquoise waters before you step back on the speedboat for a tour of the karst formations and Phi Phi Island National Park. Then, step off again on Bamboo Island’s white-sand beaches for lunch and fish-spotting.  

• Essence of Gulangyu (Xiamen, China) Head to the island of Gulangyu and jump on a golf cart to explore this sub-1 square mile island in full. Enjoy the colonial architecture, villas, white-sand beaches, intriguing inhabitants and spectacular views. You’ll enjoy a Chinese lunch and view a Chinese Puppet Show and Nanyin Performance—a truly comprehensive look at Gulangyu.  

• Evening Light Show & Night Tram to the Peak (Hong Kong, China) Prepare yourself for a spectacle of light and sound. You’ll experience the world-famous Symphony of Lights show in Hong Kong—featuring 44 buildings interacting with each other, paired with musical effects to create a memorable experience. Then take the Peak Tram ride to The Peak for a view of the entire city from 428 meters above sea level.  

• South Highlights (Jeju Island, South Korea) The highlights of this excursion are serene and gorgeous, including the Yacheonsa Temple, the Yeomiji Botanical Garden and the Jusangjeolli Daepo Coast. This excursion includes history of the Buddhists and their medicinal practices, something you may only have one chance to experience in your life. You’ll be marveled by the garden, which features near 2,000 rare tropical and subtropical plants! The Korean and international buffet will refresh you, and then you can see the Mysterious road—you’ll have to ask your cruise consultant to learn more.  

Top 10 Royal Caribbean International Asia Cruises

• Spectrum of the Seas 5 NIGHT FUKUOKA & NAGASAKI CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Sep 2024 - Nov 2024)
• Spectrum of the Seas 6 NIGHT FUKUOKA, NAGASAKI & KUMAMOTO Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024)
• Spectrum of the Seas 4 NIGHT NAGASAKI CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024 - Feb 2026)
• Spectrum of the Seas 5 NIGHT KAGOSHIMA & KUMAMOTO CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024 - May 2025)
• Quantum of the Seas 13 NIGHT TOKYO TO SINGAPORE CRUISE Departing From Tokyo, Japan (Oct 2024)
• Spectrum of the Seas 4 NIGHT FUKUOKA & JEJU CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024)
• Spectrum of the Seas 5 NIGHT OKINAWA & ISHIGAKI CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024 - Feb 2026)
• Spectrum of the Seas 4 NIGHT NAGASAKI & JEJU CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Oct 2024 - Nov 2024)
• Spectrum of the Seas 7 NIGHT OSAKA, KOBE & TOKYO CRUISE Departing From Shanghai, China (Nov 2024 - Mar 2026)
• Anthem of the Seas 4 NIGHT PENANG & PHUKET CRUISE Departing From Singapore, Singapore (Nov 2024 - Mar 2025)

Royal Caribbean International Asia Departure Ports

Learn more about each of the possible departure ports for an Asia cruise with Royal Caribbean. Your Royal Caribbean Asia cruise could leave from any of the following cities:

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Hong Kong, Hong Kong Sar, China

One of the world’s most exciting modern cities, Hong Kong offers a true East meets West experience where you can shop for traditional Chinese cure-alls and attend high tea all in the same afternoon.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai is the cultural and economic center of East Asia and is drawing more and more attention from all over the world as it is becoming a renowned international metropolis.

Singapore, Singapore

Southeast Asia’s most modern city, Singapore, also contains a lot of history and treasures from the past, along with a perfect tropical climate – all making Singapore a wonderful destination year round.

Tianjin (Beijing), China

Get outside of Beijing and explore Tianjin, a modern city that’s home to several major art forms. 

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a dazzling city where you might be overwhelmed at first by its modernity but will find lots of interesting subcultures in its various neighborhoods.

Photo Gallery for Royal Caribbean International Asia Cruises

Browse our photo gallery of Asia cruising photos from Royal Caribbean. Keep in mind, this is just a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Royal Caribbean Asia cruise vacation.

Buildings in Gulangyu Xiamen

Jungmun Daepo Haean Jusangjeollida at Jeju Island

Mangrove tour in Langkawi Malyasia

View of Phi Phi Island in Thailand

Symphony of lights show in Hong Kong

Tourists ride elephants through the jungle

Bali Temple in Asia

Backwaters of Alappuzha houseboats in India

The Singapore skyline

Tourists at the Bali Temple

Wat Pho Reclining Buddha in Bangkok

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The wonders of Asia can be fully appreciated by taking an Asian cruise. Come and experience the treasures of Asia, golden memories that last a lifetime, and the chance to see an evocative part of the world that is priceless. The great metropolises of Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Beijing and Manila - each offering their own contrasts of the traditional and the modern. Asia is filled with magical lands where red-robed monks ring temple bells in Da Nang and bustling Ho Chi Minh City dazzles the senses with an amazing array of sights, sounds and aromas. Explore unforgettable places where the air is scented with incense and you'll be warmly greeted in a dozen tongues. Come experience the beauty of Asia on an incredible cruise vacation.

Visiting Asia without taking an Asian cruise is missing an important part of the experience. For Asia cruise discounts use our Online Search which contains hundreds of Asian cruise deals.

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A destination to tantalize all five senses.

The far east is not as far as you think..

When was the last time you used all five of your senses at once? Visit the Far East, a kaleidoscope of exotic sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and experiences. Enjoy the tranquility of ancient temples, the flavors of curries and satays, and world-class shopping.

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• Discover some of Asia’s most fascinating cities, like Tokyo, Shanghai, and Seoul
• Experience a dragon boat festival in Phuket, Thailand
• See the grottos and Batu Caves of Kuala Lumpur
• Marvel at Singapore’s towering skyscrapers
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Royal Caribbean

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Star of the seas, icon of the seas, utopia of the seas, wonder of the seas, odyssey of the seas, spectrum of the seas, symphony of the seas, ovation of the seas, harmony of the seas, anthem of the seas, quantum of the seas, allure of the seas, oasis of the seas, independence of the seas, liberty of the seas, review of royal caribbean.

RCI (Royal Caribbean International) is a subsidiary company and largest brand of RCG (Royal Caribbean Group, fka RCCL-Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd). This Norwegian-American corporation is currently ranked the world's second-largest passenger shipping company (after Carnival Corporation /39% market share). However, RCG owns the world's biggest passenger ships . As of 2020, RCG controlled ~24% of the global ship cruising market (fleet passenger capacity), had full ownership of 4 brands (RCI, Celebrity , Silversea , Azamara ), 49% stake in Pullmantur (51% owned by Springwater Capital), 50% stake in TUI Cruises (50% owned by TUI AG), 19% stake in Wamos Air (fka Air Pullmantur).

Company History

RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (royalcaribbeangroup.com / renamed in 2020 from RCCL-"Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd") is based in Miami (Florida USA) and incorporated in Liberia. The company was formed in 1997 when RCCL (Royal Caribbean Cruise Line/1968-established) purchased Celebrity Cruises (1988-established). A decision was made to keep the two brands separate. As result, RCCL was re-branded RCI-Royal Caribbean International (RoyalCaribbean.com) and RCCL was founded as the parent company of RCI and Celebrity.

Royal Caribbean Group's current management team is led by Jason Liberty (RCG's Chairman, President, and CEO since January 2022) and includes Palle Laursen (RCG's Executive VP), Naftali Holtz (RCG's CFO), RCI's Michael Bayley (President and CEO), Jim Berra (Chief Marketing Officer, Senior VP Marketing), Vicki Freed (Senior VP Sales), Michael Goldner (VP Revenue Management), Jessie Ortiz (VP Finance and Administration), Gregory Purdy (Senior VP Marine Operations), Nick Weir (Senior VP Entertainment), Sean Treacy (Senior VP Hotel Operations), Laura Hodges Bethge (Senior VP Product Development), Bert Hernandez (President of Royal Caribbean China). RCG's Managing Director for China and Asia is Zinan Liu.

The name RCCL (initially "Royal Caribbean Cruise Line AS) was officially accepted in 1969 (on January 31st). Other suggested names for the company included "Pleasure Cruise Line" (PCL), "Holiday Cruise Line" (HCL), "Crown Cruise Line" (CCL), "Royal Caribbean Line" (RCL). RCCL's "crowned anchor" logo was designed by Morits Skaugen and accepted in March (1969).

Around 55% of RCI's total revenue comes from the USA. The brand's other major markets are Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. As of 2020, RCI ships visit a total of 322 call ports worldwide, offering 4500+ shore excursions through local tour companies.

Since 2017, Royal Caribbean has joint ownership of Grand Bahama Shipyard (Freeport) , where major drydock refurbishments and ship maintenance works take place.

Company changes 2024

In January, Jason Liberty was appointed as the Chairman of CLIA's Board of Directors (CLIA/Cruise Lines International Association). Also in January was RCG's ever-strongest booked position (as both pricing and volume/staterooms), with North America being the primary source market (~80%) and the Caribbean being RCI's most demanded region.

In March, RCI introduced fleetwide a third (Middle) dinner time, added in between the traditional two dining times in the MDRs/main restaurants (Early/5 pm or Late/8 pm). The exact Middle dinner time depends on ship/itinerary, starting sometime around 7 pm.

In late-March 2024, RCG announced plans for Royal Beach Club Cozumel . Scheduled for opening and inauguration in 2026, the exclusive destination will feature several beaches (including adults-only and suite guests-only), kids' playgrounds, freshwater pools, various drinking and dining venues, live music and entertainment.

In late-April, RCG signed a partnership with Hard Rock Cafe Inc (1971-founded chain of bar-restaurants, shops, casinos and museums) and Seminole Gaming Casinos to allow their customers to receive benefits (discounts and perks, accommodations, meals) at their land properties (casinos, hotels, cafes) as well as on RCG's ships. The partnership leveraged the companies' loyalty programs, benefiting the millions of RCG and Hard Rock-Seminole members enrolled in their loyalty programs (Unity by Hard Rock, RCI's Club Royale, and Celebrity's Blue Chip Club).

In May, Angie Stephen was appointed Senior VP of International. In August, Chad Grospe was appointed VP and Managing Director of APAC/Asia–Pacific-Australia-New Zealand.

In June RCG launched the Loyalty Status Match program allowing loyalty members from each brand (RCI’s Crown & Anchor Society, Celebrity’s Captain’s Club, and Silversea’s Venetian Society) to attain reciprocal tier status across all brands.

Company changes 2023

In January RCI opened a sales office in Limassol Cyprus and Spectrum OTS was reflagged from Bahamas to Cyprus.

Since January 2023, RCI's onboard messaging system is complimentary (provided free of charge fleetwide/via Royal App) regardless of cabin category and during the entire voyage. The service used to cost US$2 per day per device.

Since March 2023, RCI provides fleetwide once-per-day cabin housekeeping service to all staterooms in non-suite categories. The service is provided either in the morning or in the afternoon (at the passenger's discretion).

There are rumors that RCI may bring back the RFID bracelets (aka WOW bands) fleetwide. They were reintroduced in early 2023 (on all OASIS- and QUANTUM-Class ships) at the cost of US$10 per bracelet. WOW bands are still provided complimentary to all passengers occupying Sky Class and Star Class suites.

RCI announced that starting in April, the Sky Pad Bungee Trampoline will be removed fleetwide, and the facility will be replaced with a new venue (tba).

In 2023, the music clubs "Jazz on 4" of all OASIS-class liners were converted into non-smoking Casino Rooms. Each Casino Royale Non-Smoking is fitted with 40-46x slot machines, 3x gambling tables (1x blackjack table, 2x 3-card poker tables), a kiosk and a cashier window.

On August 25th, RCI announced the exclusive partnership with Inter Miami CF (2018-established soccer club) to become its Official Vacation Partner. In July, Lionel Andres Messi (1987-born Argentine footballer) joined Inter Miami and the club won "2023 Leagues Cup" (an international tournament between MLS and Liga MX/held in Jul 21-Aug 19). 2023 Leagues Cup's 47 teams played at 29 stadiums (77 matches, 251 goals) and Messi was the top-scorer (with 10 goals).

Since October 2023, the Diamond Lounge has been renamed Crown Lounge (fleetwide).

On November 11th (2023), RCI's daily gratuities per person (automatically charged/both adults and kids) were increased to US$18 (Junior Suites and below categories) and US$20.50 (Grand Suite and above categories).

In November RCG appointed Diane Chiang as APAC (Asia-Pacific) Sales Director. She joined RCG in 2007 (as Business Analyst) and was later promoted to Revenue Manager.

In December RCI ended its partnership with Ben & Jerry's Homemade Holdings Inc (1978-founded company that manufactures premium ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet). On 13 RCI ships, the Ben & Jerry's ice cream shops (previously offering the Vermont brand) now offer in-house brand ice cream.

In December, it was rumored that RCG was negotiating to purchase Freeport's Xanadu Beach Hotel. The deal could include a land area of 40-50 acres (16-20  hectares/0,16-0,2 km2) in Freeport Harbour. The Xanadu Beach Hotel (1968-built, capacity 215 rooms) in 1972 was purchased by Howard Robard Hughes Jr (1905-1976) and also included an 80-berth yacht marina.

In 2023, RCI's 26 vessels served 6+ million travelers (~23% increase from 2022's 4,6M) and visited 252 call ports (230 in 2022). The most visited were Nassau (Bahamas) and Cozumel (Mexico), both received 3+ million tourists.

Company changes 2022

On September 7th (2022), RCI's daily gratuities per person were increased to US$16 (interior, oceanview, balcony staterooms/Junior Suites and below categories) and to US$18,50 (Grand Suite and above categories).

On August 30th, RCG signed a deal with SpaceX/Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (2002-founded by Elon Musk) for using Starlink's satellites to provide faster and low-latency Internet connections across the global fleet (Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, and Silversea ships). Trials on the new Starlink Internet services were successfully conducted on Freedom OTS in June. Starlink Internet installations were scheduled to be completed fleetwide in 2023-Q1.

On June 15th, RCG signed with Eagle LNG Partners LLC (Eagle LNG) a contract for providing LNG (liquefied natural gas) and bunkering services to LNG-powered RCI liners, the first of which is Icon OTS. The gas supply is sourced from Eagle LNG's facilities in JAXPORT-Jacksonville Florida , shipped throughout the Caribbean and bunkered by Eagle LNG-owned newbuild vessels.

In March was launched the online booking service "Royal Caribbean Hotels" via partnership with Priceline (1997-founded online booking agency specializing in travel-related products/flights, hotels, cruises). The program (available only for residents of the USA, Canada, and Mexico) allows booking pre-/post-cruise hotel stays (in all RCI ports, including in Europe, Asia-Pacific. Caribbean-Americas) with exclusive discount rates and the guarantee that RCI will cover any hotel cancellation fees if the voyage is canceled or the itinerary modified.

Company changes 2021

RCG's 2021-Q3 report included Adjusted Net Loss USD 1,2B ($4,91 per share), liquidity ~$4,1B ($3,3B cash), 40 ships in operation (~65% fleet capacity), ~USD 2,8B in cruise deposits (of which ~1/3rd in FCCs/future credits).

In October was announced RCI's first " World Cruise " scheduled for Serenade OTS . The 274-night itinerary (Dec 10, 2023, thru Sept 10, 2024) is roundtrip from PortMiami and visits 150 ports/islands (57 new for RCI), 65 countries, 7 continents.

Since 2021, on all RCI ships passengers can use for US$ 2 per person per day a "guest-to-guest chat" feature (part of the Royal App) without purchasing Internet packages. The feature allows chatting between guests one-to-one, as well as group chats.

In September RCG signed with USVA (US Virgin Islands) an MoU for two future port developments - Crown Bay (St Thomas Island) and Frederiksted (St Croix Island). The agreement included increased calls to both islands and guaranteed by RCG minimum revenues.

In September RCG signed with TraceSafe a 2-year contract for "Tracelet" (trademarked by RCG in October 2020). These are wearable tracing bands used on RCG ships for identifying the close contacts of a COVID-positive passenger/crew. The technology was introduced on Quantum OTS when the boat restarted operations from Singapore.

On May 20th RCI patented "WATER-BASED PYROTECHNIC ILLUSION". The patent (number 20210146396) is about "systems and methods for firework water illusions" and includes a device with at least 1 rotating nozzle spraying water in a radial direction, with a system to illuminate the water and create an illusion of pyrotechnics.

RCG's 2020-Q4 financial report revealed US GAAP Net Loss of USD 5,8 billion (EUR 4,774B, or US$27,05 per share) and Adjusted Net Loss of USD 3,9 billion (EUR 3,21B, or US$18,31 per share). In 2020, RCG raised ~USD 9,3B (~EUR 7,655B) through bond issuances, loans, public common stocks) and as of Dec 31 had liquidity ~USD 4,4B (EUR 3,62B, including $3,7B in cash-cash equivalents plus $0,7B from a year loan).

In mid-February RCG established a USD 40 million fund for USA-based qualifying travel agencies. The program allows 3-year, interest-free loans (max US$250,000) via CruisingPower.com.

On January 19th RCG announced an agreement to sell the brand Azamara Cruises for USD 201 million (~EUR 165,8 M / ~GBP 147,6 M / carve-out transaction) to Sycamore Partners. Sycamore Partners acquired the entire brand and its 3 ships, plus all the associated intellectual property rights and goodwill. The all-cash transaction was closed on March 19, 2021. Azamara's CEO (Carol Cabezas) was appointed President. The deal was assisted by Perella Weinberg Partners (financial advisor for RCG), Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (legal counsel for RCG) and Kirkland & Ellis (legal advice to Sycamore).

After selling 8 ships - 3x Pullmantur (Horizon, Monarch, Sovereign), 3x Azamara (Quest, Journey, Pursuit), 2x RCI (Empress, Monarch), RCG's global fleet capacity decreased by 12316 berths (5984+2138+4194).

Company changes 2020

In February RCG purchased land ("multiple real estate parcels") on Paradise Island's (Bahamas) western coast, at the cost of ~USD 54 million (~EUR 50 million). In mid-March 2020 was announced RCI's second private resort property (after Fort James in St Johns Antigua ) - Royal Beach Club Bahamas (at Paradise Island , close to Nassau ).

On March 23rd RCG loaned USD 2,2 billion (~EUR 2,03 B) with maturity in March 2021 and an optional extension for 364 more days (till March 2022). With the new financing, RCCL now has USD 3,6+ billion of liquidity (cash deposits plus undrawn credit facilities). The money was secured term-loaned from 3 US banks (JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America Corporation, Goldman Sachs Group) plus the French banking group BNP Paribas.

On July 30th RCG was officially renamed to "Royal Caribbean Group". The logo was also changed.

In late-July RCI introduced "Muster 2.0" (patented, Internet-based safety drill conducted via the eMuster mobile app). The patent was filed on September 12, 2019 (issued March 3, 2020).

Company changes 2019

In April RCG partnered with IDEMIA (fka Morpho) - Paris-based French company specializing in security and identity solutions. In 2017, Morpho merged with Oberthur Technologies. IDEMIA's services will help speed up RCCL passenger disembarkation at select US homeports via the company's MFACE (high-speed 3D facial recognition) technology. The list of homeports, for now, includes NYC (Cape Liberty NJ) and PortMiami, with more Florida homeports to me added by the end of 2019. MFACE compares disembarking passenger's facial identity with those of embarking passengers, also matching against US Customs and Border Protection provided TVS (Traveler Verification Service). Passenger privacy is guaranteed as no photos are stored either by RCCL, IDEMIA or US Customs after the cruise's completion.

On June 4th the USA banned travel to Cuba (effective immediately). On June 5, RCCL officially canceled all pre-scheduled for 2019 Cuban cruises. On both affected RCI liners ( Majesty OTS and Empress OTS ) all Cuban ports were substituted with alternative Caribbean ports. All affected customers were provided with the option to either remain on the revised cruise and receive 50% refund (in OBC) or cancel the booking with a full refund.

In late-July on Symphony OTS was introduced "Fast Track" - expedited boarding program offered in all call ports of the current itinerary. Fast Track is available for passengers in Star-Sky Class suites, Pinnacle members, "The Key" (pre-purchased daily package that includes lunch at Chops Grille, Jamie's or Giovanni's specialty restaurants), disabled passengers, and families with strollers.

In October 2019 were open for booking RCI's new "Spa Cabins" offered fleetwide in the ship classes Radiance-Voyager-Freedom-Quantum-Quantum Ultra-Oasis. The new Spa staterooms (available since 2021) offer as bonus amenities priority Spa reservations, 50% discounted Spa treatments (1 per cabin), daily room service (coffee/tea), BOSE Bluetooth speaker, tranquil artworks (on the walls), plush bedding, feather pillows, upgraded bathroom amenities (Jacuzzi showerhead, premium brand toiletries, luxury slippers and bathrobes), cushioned balcony furniture, Welcome Aboard gift (fresh fruits).

In November RCI signed a 5-year partnership deal (until 2024) with Singapore Tourism Board (under Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry) and Changi Airport Group (Singapore airport operations and management). This 3-party deal is for promoting fly-cruises to Singapore mainly (from China, India, Southeast Asia, USA) on Quantum OTS with expected ~623,000 international tourists spending ~USD 430+ million on flight+cruise packages. This is ~60% growth in comparison to the previous tripartite partnership (2015-2018) when in Singapore was homeported Mariner OTS.

In December RCI sighed with Port Galveston an agreement for building Cruise Terminal 3. The new (USD 100 million) facility is scheduled for inauguration in November 2021.

Company changes 2018

Since March 2018, RCCL offers one login for RCI and Celebrity websites and mobile apps. The new policy allows one account to be used for loyalty program benefits, bookings, and reservations with both brands. Account security was also simplified and strengthened to ensure customers' personal data.

Since May 2018 fleetwide are used only cage-free eggs and gestation stall-free pork. By the year 2024, for all its USA-based ships, RCCL will purchase poultry only from GAP-certified producers/dealers. The corporation will require chickens to be slaughtered and processed in a manner that doesn't involve live dumping and shackling, thus eliminating conscious throat-slitting and scalding.

Since June 2018, RCI's ship bars serve cocktails with optional plastic straws (not by default) - a new policy aiming to reduce sea pollution. "Why no straws?" signs at onboard bars fleetwide now indicate that drink orders will not automatically receive a straw, but only upon request.

In June-July RCCL acquired 2/3 of the top-luxury brand Silversea . On June 14, 2018, RCCL and Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio (Silversea's majority stock owner) announced an agreement for RCCL to acquire 66,7% equity stake in Silversea, at purchase price ~USD 1 billion. At the time, Silversea was valued ~USD 2 billion. RCCL financed the deal (through debt) in October. In addition to the cash money, Lefebvre family received ~472,000 RCCL shares. With the addition of Silversea (4 expedition ships) and the newbuild Celebrity Flora (Galapagos) , RCCL's expedition fleet in 2019 grew to approx 2,5% of the corporation's combined fleet (compared to 0,5% in 2018). By combined expedition cruise berths, RCCL is ranked the world's 4th largest operator - following Ponant , Hurtigruten and Lindblad . In July 2020, RCCL-Royal Caribbean Group purchased Silversea's remaining shares from Heritage Cruise Holding Ltd. The purchase was in the form of 5,2 million RCL shares (~2,5% of RCCL's total common stock).

(deposit program changes) Since November 2018, RCI customers booking non-refundable deposit fares don't receive onboard credit (US$100) per stateroom. Instead, they are promised the lowest pricing on the fare.

RCCL has a call center in Springfield OR, operated since 2006. The customized office resembles a cruise ship. In 2014, the company employed there over 700 people. In August 2018 was announced that RCCL plans to outsource most of its Springfield jobs (~90%, excepting only sales employees) to the company's call centers in Jamaica and Guatemala. This means that US sales agents will do the bookings, but when customers call back with issues they will be re-routed overseas.

On October 1st RCI announced that the company's 50th birthday cruise (themed "50 Years Bold Birthday Cruise") will be held on Symphony OTS (November 2-9, 2019). The 7-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from PortMiami visited St Maarten, San Juan Puerto Rico, CocoCay Bahamas, and featured unique programming, special events, surprise guest performers.

All RCG-owned vessels are serviced by Wartsila ( Helsinki Finland -based corporation, marine equipment manufacturer and maritime services provider). In 2018, RCCL and Wartsila extended their service agreement to 2028. Under the agreement, Wartsila optimizes machinery efficiency through improved Turbocharger maintenance, also provides OEM (original equipment manufacturer) spare parts, workshop services, technical assistance for the entire RCCL fleet. The deal covers a total of 196 marine diesel engines on 46 vessels. Most RCCL liners are equipped with Wartsila-developed monitoring technology sending real-time engine data to a land-based center for analysis.

Royal Caribbean International (RCI)

Royal Caribbean is in the top 3 "best family cruise lines" (together with CCL-Carnival and DCL-Disney) and owns the world's largest and some of the most popular ships for young adults, kids, and teens. As a mass-market company, RCI is recommended mostly for young and middle-aged, active and sports-oriented travelers.

A signature feature of RCI ships is the "Viking Crown Lounge", introduced in 1970 with RCI's first ship MS Song of Norway (2013-scrapped as "Formosa Queen"). As RCI ships grew in size, this top-deck observation lounge also grew. On the VISION-Class ships (1995) its location was changed - from forward to midship-aft (near the smokestacks) allowing more space to be allocated for new amenities and entertainment.

In 2014 and 2015, RCI introduced the Dynamic Dining concept that replaced the Main Dining Room concept on QUANTUM-class ships.

• RCI vessels with Dynamic Dining don't have an MDR/Main Dining Room. Instead, they feature complimentary table service restaurants, each with its own theme and menu: "The Grande", "American Icon Grill", "Chic" and "Silk".
• Suite passengers have access to "Coastal Kitchen" (complimentary restaurant). Similar to the Freestyle concept on NCL Norwegian , passengers make reservations for their restaurant choice for each night in advance.
• Each venue maintains the same staff and menu throughout the cruise. Anthem OTS has a "Dynamic Dining Classic" option, allowing guests to rotate between dining venues but keep the same waiter, assistant waiter, and tablemates.

The company had planned to extend the Dynamic Dining to OASIS-class liners. During 2014-2015 drydock refurbishments , decor and signage were installed on the 3 levels of the MDRs of Allure OTS and Oasis OTS to prepare them to function as separate restaurants ("The Grande", "Silk", "American Icon Grill"), although the 3 levels continued operating as a single MDR. The suite-only restaurant Coastal Kitchen was also installed. However, on July 15, 2015, RCI announced that the dynamic dining concept would not be rolled out fleetwide.

Besides the multi-deck MDRs, RCI also features the "Chops Grille" (steakhouse(, "Windjammer Cafe" (Lido buffet restaurant), Johnny Rockets, Izumi (Japanese/Asian), poolside bars, 24-hour Room Service. "Cupcake Cupboard" is a ship bakery (available on the newest and refurbished ships) offering 30 gourmet cupcakes. Select RCI ships offer Starbucks Coffee at Sea.

RCI's new alcohol policy allows passengers to bring their own wine onboard and consume it in cabins (for free) or for a corkage fee (additional charge) in public areas.

(trademarks) New services, venues, trademarked ship names

Note: OTS="Of The Seas"

In January 2017 were trademarked (USPTO-registered) the ship names Valhalla OTS, Sunrise OTS, Icon OTS , Symphony OTS . On September 15, 2014, RCCL trademarked the ship names Spectrum OTS , Harmony OTS , Emblem OTS, Joy OTS, Apex OTS. In September 2015 were abandoned the trademarks Emblem OTS, Passion OTS, Pulse OTS, Apex OTS, Joy OTS, Spectrum OTS . Other currently trademarked by Royal Caribbean ship names include Gallant OTS, Phenom OTS, Valhalla OTS, Sunrise OTS.

In September 2018 were trademarked 3 ship names (could be used for future newbuilds) - Eon OTS, Gallant OTS, Phenom OTS. In October was trademarked Metropolis OTS.

In September 2018 was trademarked the OASIS-Class ships' smokestack area (located top-deck midship). The design features a crown-shaped bottom section with 2 slanted funnels above. In October 2018 was trademarked the hull's oblong-shaped stern. The design features AquaTheater Suites (with balconies), Ultimate Abyss (2 cascading waterslides) and RCCL's logo. In December 2018 was trademarked the name "Fly Rider" (amusement park ride/similar to a zip-line roller coaster ride).

In October 2019, RCI partnered with Funky Buddha Brewery (Oakland Park FL) for an exclusive beer label available only on CocoCay Island. The private beer label ("Chilla Thrilla") was trademarked on July 8, 2019. The craft beer (5% ABV) is a tropical ale (with mango and guava) packaged in 12-oz cans and is offered in different labels themed after CocoCay's areas.

In April 2020, RCG filed a trademark application for "Seaface" - its own sanitary mask brand ("medical apparatus") intended for cruise ship services.

In October 2020 were trademarked the names of 4 new shipboard venues - Vue Bar, Cask & Clipper (pub restaurant?), Wonder Playscape (kids playground?), Cantina Fresca (Mexican food bar).

In January 2020 were trademarked 15x names for new services and shipboard venues - Go Green, Roosevelt's Table, Royal Dueling Pianos, Royal Suite Club, Cloud 17 (adults-only sundeck), Lou's Jazz Club, Playaway Park (kids), The Overlook, The Yard, The Lemon Post (bar), Absolute Zero (ice bar), Challenger's (bar), Surfside (bar), Salty Sip (bar), AquaDome (glass roof over the pool deck).

In March 2021 was trademarked the phrase "America's Cruise Line" (software-related).

In October 2021 were trademarked 3x shipboard BBQ restaurant names ("The Mason Jar", "Savannah's Table", "Palmetto Room"), as well as "RCTV" (in-cabin TV programming), "Cruise Compass" (daily onboard newspaper), "RCG" (abbrev) and "Royal Caribbean Group" (shipowner).

In November 2021 were trademarked 6x names for ship waterslides - "Perfect Storm", "Hurricane Hunter", "Category 6", "Pressure Drop", "Storm Surge", "Storm Chasers".

In December 2021 were trademarked 23x possible ship names (all with OTS) - Magnificence, Melody, Fantasia, Paradise, Vibrance, Splendor, Grace, Sanctuary, Illumination, Unity, Intrigue, Aria, Awe, Aura, Eternity, Eden, Euphoria, Bliss, Utopia , Marvel, Nirvana, Haven, Divine. Also was trademarked "Royal Beach Club" (Nassau).

In January 2022 was trademarked "Accessory Place" (retail shop services that include selling jewelry) and "Cruiseverse" (virtual cruise ship services).

In June 2022 were trademarked the ship names Hero OTS, Majesty OTS, Marquee OTS, Monarch OTS, Nova OTS, Splendor OTS, Star OTS , Sun OTS, Titan OTS.

In September 2022 was trademarked "Icon of Vacations".

RCI cruise ships classes

RCI's fleet has vessels in the following classes:

Note: All vessels have an Outdoor Movie Theater (poolside large LED screen for movies), Solarium (adults-only pool deck), Aqua Park, Rock Climbing Wall, FlowRider (surf simulator), 3D Cinema, Virtual Balcony Staterooms.

• "Oasis Class" ships (Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony) feature Neighborhoods, AquaTheater, 3D Movies, Waterslides (Harmony, Symphony), Zip Line, 2 FlowRiders, 2 Climbing Walls, Carousel, Ice-Skating Rink, Loft Suites (2-deck cabins).
• "Icon Class" is a new design vessel with GT ~250K tons and passenger capacity 5600. The design is represented by 3x units ( Icon OTS , Apex OTS, Joy OTS) and features 8x neighborhoods and numerous fleet-firsts in technologies, venues, amenities, cabin types and categories.
• "Quantum Class" (Quantum, Anthem, Ovation) and "Quantum Ultra Class" (Spectrum, Odyssey) feature North Star (top-deck, mobile observation capsule/costs $25 pp), RipCord by iFLY (sky-diving simulator/$55 pp), Seaplex (large indoor sports complex), Two70 Lounge (3-deck high), Loft Suites, Music Hall (2-deck venue).
• "Freedom Class" (ships Freedom, Liberty, Independence) features Ice-Skating Rink, Royal Promenade (indoor street).
• "Radiance Class" (ships Radiance, Brilliance, Serenade, Jewel) features Glass Elevators, Gyroscopic Self-Leveling Pool Tables, Mini-Golf Course.
• "Vision Class" ships (Grandeur, Rhapsody, Enchantment, Vision) is the fleet's oldest, excepting only the "Sovereign Class" ships Majesty and Empress.

The Voyager-class, Freedom-class, and Oasis-class vessels have Royal Promenade. It is a centerline promenade in a multi-deck Atrium with a pedestrian (shopping mall-like) area lined with restaurants and shops. At night, the Royal Promenade turns into an entertainment venue hosting live parades and dance parties. Royal Promenade's upper levels have "Promenade Staterooms" (each with a large window overlooking the promenade below).

All RCI ships have an Escape Room (team-building, adventure gaming experiences/$20 pp), Flowriders (surfing simulator/private lessons cost $69-500), Gaming Arcades ($1-3 per game). Optional are the Behind the Scenes (ship tour/costs $49-129 pp), fitness classes ($12 pp), cooking classes ($35-70 pp).

The next aerial photo shows a VOYAGER-class ship (Adventure, Explorer, Mariner, Navigator, Voyager).

On February 18, 2019, RCI signed a shipbuilding agreement with STX France (Chantiers de l'Atlantique Shipyard in St Nazaire ) for a 6th OASIS liner (yard's 23rd vessel built for RCG). The ship ( Utopia OTS ) has volume 236857 GT-tons, LOA 362 m (1188 ft) and 2834 cabins (capacity 5634-6788 passengers).

On April 24, 2019, STX France started construction works on the 5th OASIS unit (Wonder OTS/2022), and on July 1st, 2022, on the 6th unit (Utopia OTS/2024).

The next aerial photo shows an OASIS/OASIS PLUS-class ship as looked from above.

Instead of Royal Promenade, Quantum-class liners have "Royal Esplanade" - a 2-deck high shopping complex without any overlooking "Promenade cabins".

Royal Caribbean ships offer a wide list of onboard facilities, the main of which include Grand-style productions Theatre, Live Comedy Club, Disco/Nightclub, Casino Royale, Library. Sports facilities include Studio B/Ice-Skating Rink, Rock Climbing Wall, FlowRider/surfing simulator, a Multiple Sports Court, Walking/Jogging Track, Golf Simulator, ZIP-Line, H2O Zone (Waterpark with Waterslide), Adventure Beach. Only Quantum ships have Bumper Cars, Skydiving Simulator, North Star/rotational capsule.

In 2016, RCI entered the "Guinness Book of World Records" in the category "Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship". The record was because of the "North Star" glass-walled observation capsule rising over 300 ft (91 m) above sea level and rotating upwards and over the ship's sides providing 360-degree views.

Next photo shows an ICON-class ship.

Families cruising with infants and toddlers benefit from RCI's nursery programs "Royal Babies" and "Royal Tots". Supervised children's club activities are available by RCI's children's program "Adventure Ocean".

CocoCay Island refurbishments 2018-2019 expansion

Since 2015, RCCL/RCG invests huge money in the corporation's private Bahamian island CocoCay .

In March 2018 was announced a USD 200-million project (named "Perfect Day Island Collection") for developing private land destinations in the regions of the Caribbean, Asia, and Australia-Oceania. As part of this project, on CocoCay will be built unique water attractions.

Thrill Waterpark attraction has 2 water towers (Daredevil's Tower, Family Tower) with a total of 13 slides. The Daredevil's Tower complex consists of North America's tallest waterslide (named Daredevil's Peak, height 135 ft / 41 m), Dueling Demons (2 drop slides), Manta Raycers (2 high-speed slides), Screeching Serpent (fully vertical slide), Green Mamba (coiling slide), as well as Caribbean's largest wave pool (Adventure Pool ) with obstacle course (lily pads), rock-climbing wall, . The Family Tower complex consists of all 6 waterslides, including 1 tubed (The Twister, capacity 2 persons sharing 1 raft), 1 zero-gravity (The Slingshot, capacity 4 persons) and 1 racing (Splash Speedway, with 4 lanes).

Caribbean's biggest freshwater swimming pool (named Oasis Lagoon) has a swim-up bar and water loungers.

Caribbean's only Zip-line with water landing has length 1600 ft (488 m) and crisscrosses the island at heights up to 50 ft (15 m).

The Bahamas' highest vantage point (an attraction named "Up, Up and Away") is a helium balloon flying up to 450 ft (137 m) above ground.

Newly added amenities include wave runner and boat tours, snorkeling, private cabanas and daybeds for rental, several beach bars with upgraded menus.

CocoCay has 3 new beaches - Chill Island Beach (private cabanas, daybeds), South Beach (designed for beachside activities/volleyball, basketball, soccer, paddleboards, glass-bottom sea kayaks, zorbs, has bungalows, daybeds, teepees/cone-shaped tents) and Coco Beach Club (overwater cabanas/rentals are inclusive of 1 hammock, 1 waterslide, dedicated service by an attendant). The complex also has a freshwater infinity pool, full bar, restaurant.

In May 2018 were announced plans to build permanent accommodations on CocoCay allowing Suite passengers to stay on the island overnight (or longer). The concept includes premium cabanas serving passengers on any of the RCI ships calling at CocoCay.

In 2017-2018 was constructed a new pier (can handle RCI's largest boats), as well as a basketball court, bocce ball court, bowling court, volleyball nets, large-size pool table.

In 2016 CocoCay was upgraded with a swim-up bar at Barefoot Beach, new cabanas, new island dock (for tenders), 35 beach bungalows (capacity 6 persons each) at Barefoot Beach.

In 2015, the island was upgraded with new trams (quieter and taller) and was added a new / shorter tram route and a new freshwater shower (at Barefoot Beach).

(NEW) Lucaya Resort Bahamas

In March 2019, the joint venture company Holistica Ltd (RCCL and ITM Group / Mumbai India ) signed a letter of intent with The Bahamas government for the purchase of Grand Lucayan Resort (an all-inclusive resort complex) and redevelopment of the Bahamian cruise port Freeport Harbor. The 2-year, USD 195 million project includes Grand Lucayan Resort's purchase (USD 65 million) plus USD 135 million for development works. The new (RCL-exclusive) cruise port is expected to bring ~2 million additional tourists to Grand Bahama Island annually. The project includes the construction of a theme park and a 5-star hotel. Grand Lucayan Resort suffered significant damages during Hurricane Matthew (October 2016) and was forced to close 2/3 of its property.

On June 24, 2019, RCCL and ITM Group established the Miami-headquartered joint venture company "Holistica" which specializes in cruise port development projects worldwide. Holistica's first project was the USD 275 million Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport Bahamas . Developments by Holistica were also planned for Costa Maya (Mexico), Roatan Island (Honduras) and Kumamoto (Kyushu Island, Japan).

On March 2, 2020, RCCL officially announced Holistica's USD 300 million private cruise resort project "Lucaya Property". The investment includes redeveloping (expanding) the Freeport Cruise Terminal (to be renamed to "Harbour Village") and building a leisure complex with a large hotel (526 rooms), wellness facilities, shopping village, convention center (sized 40,000 ft2 / 3720 m2), theme park (with water slides, outdoor playgrounds, zip-lines).

Lucaya Property is approx 9 mi (15 km) west of Harbour Village (Freeport Cruise Terminal). At Harbour Village for tourists will be introduced new shopping and dining venues (bars, restaurants), live entertainment and nightlife programming, beach zones, new shore excursions, new transport infrastructure (serving ferries, buses, passenger vehicles). The Lucaya Property project is planned for completion in 2022-Q4.

RCI "VOOM" Internet

VOOM is the trademarked name of RCI's high-speed Internet service providing faster connectivity at sea, with almost the same Internet speeds as on land. The new satellite technology utilizes each ship specifically.

VOOM Internet has latency 120 ms, ping ~300 ms, download speed ~4,6 Mbps, upload speed ~5,2 Mbps. VOOM allows fast streaming of music and movies (incl YouTube, Netflix), uploading multiple (incl big-sized) pictures, also video chatting (FaceTime, Skype, conference calls), checking email, web surfing, stable and fast VPN connections. The onboard system is based on the 802.11b wireless connection (theoretical bandwidth peak of 11 Mbps).

• Onboard Internet access is integrated to the stateroom number and the personal onboard account. Following the log-on to the ship's wireless network "Royal WiFi", there is an option for creating an Internet account where the passenger can sign up for a particular Internet plan or pay by the minute. The charge is always applied to the cabin (onboard) account.
• While using the VOOM Internet package, passengers can switch between various mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops). However, the number of devices connected at the same time is limited by the Internet plan.
• The cruise ship also has several Internet workstations available for all passengers on an FCFS basis (a first-come-first-served).
• Among the cheaper alternatives to the VOOM are connecting onboard (while the ship is in ports of call) or ashore (in restaurants, bars, etc).

In August 2022 RCG signed a deal with SpaceX (2002-founded by Elon Musk) for using Starlink's satellites to provide faster and low-latency Internet fleetwide (RCI, Celebrity, and Silversea). The project was completed in 2023-Q1.

New Internet packages cost (2023 prices)

RCI's ship internet offering was revamped from only one plan into different per day packages with pricing based on the number of included devices. Two new packages are currently available for booking:

• Note: All below listed unlimited Internet package prices are CruisePlanner booking rates and include the 30% pre-cruise booking discount. Packages can be purchased onboard and also pre-purchased (before the cruise) via RCI's "Cruise Planner" booking system.
• "Voom Surf Voyage" is the "light package" providing high-speed Internet for general web browsing, e-mails and social media platforms (except video streaming). The "Voom Surf Voyage" Internet package cost (per day) depends on the number of mobile devices using it. "Voom Surf" pricing is as follows: $13 (1 device), $12 (2 devices), $10 (4 devices) and $20 (Single Day Pass per device / per day).
• "Voom Surf + Stream" is the "real deal", offering unlimited Internet activities, including high-speed video streaming (music, movies, video chatting, texting, VoIP apps /Internet phone calls). The "Voom Surf + Stream" Internet package cost (per day) also depends on the number of mobile devices included. Voom Surf + Stream pricing is as follows: $18 (1 device), $16 (2 devices), $14 (4 devices) and $28 (Single Day Pass per device / per day).

Occasionally, Royal Caribbean offers VOOM package discounts for passengers with pre-purchased online (via CruisePlanner) internet packages. Discounts are also offered for Royal Caribbean loyalty program members (Crown and Anchor Society) when the VOOM package is purchased onboard.

RCI's Cruise Planner packages & prices

Cruise Planner is an online booking system for adding/pre-purchasing shore excursions, specialty restaurants, beverage packages, internet packages, photo packages, gifts and gear, onboard activities (ship tour, special events), The Key (VIP access program), as well as making wellness reservations (massage and body therapies, treatments, teeth whitening, beauty services, fitness classes, personal training, etc).

Specialty restaurant dining packages currently offered by RCI include "Unlimited" (lunches, snacks, dinners), "3-Night" (3x dinners) and "Chops+1" (1x Chops Grille dinner plus 1x dinner at another restaurant).

Drink packages include Deluxe (all-inclusive), Refreshment (non-alcoholic) and Soda (unlimited refills with included a Coca-Cola souvenir cup).

The Key (VIP program offering exclusive onboard perks) must be purchased prior the voyage and is priced US$20-35 per person per day.

Arcade Gaming credit packages via CruisePlanner cost less ($20 vs $25, $40 vs $50, $80 vs $100).

Loyalty program (Crown and Anchor Society)

Through this program, regular customers accumulate points (booking 7-day and longer voyages) to become members and earn discounts and gifts.

Since January 2013, RCI's exclusive partnership with MGM Resorts International provides benefits to members of both companies' loyalty programs (Crown & Anchor Society/M life) and access and rewards at MGM Resorts' properties in the USA (casino gaming, hotel accommodations, dining, spa) and onboard RCI's liners. MGM Resorts' portfolio of resort brands includes properties in Las Vegas (Bellagio, MGM Grand, ARIA, Vdara, Mandalay Bay, Delano, The Mirage, Luxor, New York-New York, Excalibur, Park MGM, NoMad), Detroit (MGM Grand), Mississippi (Beau Rivage, Gold Strike Tunica ), Atlantic City NJ (Borgata), Oxon Hill MD (MGM National Harbor), Springfield MA (MGM Springfield).

GOLD Level (3-29 points)

Gold level members receive loyalty program-only benefits (Onboard Offers, Exclusive Rates, Desk for inquiries, member newsletter, exclusive email offers), priority notices (promo offers, new ships/itineraries), additional points (for bookings Suites and/or single cabins), various onboard discounts.

All above levels receive these perks by default.

These are exemplary discounts for Gold level members - up to 50% off wine-beer-soda by the glass/2x coupons per voyage, -25% Coffee Beverage/excluding Starbucks, -50% Johnny Rockets Milkshakes/2x coupons per voyage, -10% any VOOM-Internet Package, -10% Logoed Products/min purchase US$25, -10% any Spa Service/excluding Medi-Spa).

PLATINUM Level (30-54 points)

Platinum level members receive robes (onboard use only), Signature Lapel Pin, booking discounts (on Balcony cabins and Suites).

EMERALD Level (55-79 points)

Emerald level members receive Welcome Waters and Snacks (with Beverage Selection) and bigger booking discounts (on Balconies and Suites).

DIAMOND Level (80-174 points) perks

• Discounts on booking Suites and Balconies - US$225 discount per cabin (7-day itinerary)
• One day free VOOM internet access
• Exclusive access to Diamond Lounge (complimentary brand coffees, continental breakfast, light lunch option/sandwiches-fruits-desserts, evening happy hour/appetizers)
• 4x free drinks pp per day

DIAMOND PLUS Level (175-699) perks

• Two days free VOOM internet access
• 5x free drinks pp per day
• 1x BOGO offer (dining at any specialty restaurant paying 1x cover charge and the second person dines for free) - except Izumi Restaurant (Japanese) and Chef's Table (VIP Dining Room).

After 340 points is offered lunch with an officer (in the MDR/main dining room), with a special menu (champagne and wine included).

Lifeguards on RCI ships

Since 2017, all RCI ships have onboard licensed lifeguards by the line's "water safety program", implemented fleetwide. By the new program, water safety signs are placed throughout the ship.

Ship's lifeguards are dressed in special uniforms (in bright red and white) and stationed at every swimming pool, including the Solarium (adults-only retreat) during the complex's opening hours. All Royal Caribbean lifeguards are trained through the RCI's partnership with StarGuard Elite (Florida-based lifeguard training center).

• The water safety program includes a 15-min presentation (on embarkation day). The instruction is for by both kids and parents and held during Adventure Ocean's open-house session.
• Swim vests for all kids (aged 4-12) are readily available. Additional signage is added around swimming pool areas and in all cabins to encourage parents to use them.
• Kids under 12 require a parent or guardian to be present when swimming in any of the cruise ship's pools.

RCI's water safety program was rolled out fleetwide in 2017 (February-June). Next are listed all RCI boats and the itinerary dates (2017) when each implemented the new lifeguard service.

• Oasis (February 26-March 5)
• Harmony (March 7-11)
• Independence (March 11-16)
• Anthem (March 11-14)
• Liberty (March 12-19)
• Freedom (March 22-29)
• Allure (March 23-26)
• Brilliance (March 24-30)
• Quantum (March 26-31)
• Ovation (March 29-April 3)
• Navigator (March 31-April 5)
• Serenade (March 31-April 7)
• Jewel (March 31-April 4)
• Rhapsody (April 5-8)
• Majesty (April 21-24)
• Empress (April 24-29)
• Adventure (April 26-29)
• Enchantment (May 8-12)
• Grandeur (May 13-18)
• Explorer (May 15-26)
• Mariner (May 26-June 4)
• Radiance (May 28-June 6)
• Voyager (June 5-12)
• Vision (June 15-27)

The news made RCI the 2nd major cruise company with shipboard lifeguards - following DCL-Disney (employing certified lifeguards since 2013) and followed by NCL-Norwegian (in 2017 summer) starting with NCL's 4 largest vessels and employing onboard lifeguards fleetwide by 2018.

Shipboard poolside activities (listed in the newsletter "Cruise Compass") vary, but some of the common ones include watching movies (on the LED screen), playing bingo, hosting fun competitions, games, classes (scuba, fitness, dance, yoga, etc).

RCI "NextCruise" (onboard booking)

In August 2017, Royal Caribbean changed "Next Cruise" (onboard cruise booking program). NextCruise allows passengers to book a future RCI itinerary while on the ship. The old program included booking with reduced deposits.

Since August 2017, the deposit required for onboard booking is the same as the deposit required with shore bookings (ranging between USD 100-450 per stateroom, depending on itinerary length).

Since December 2017, NextCruise shipboard booking customers are eligible to pay a reduced deposit (USD 100 pp) regardless of voyage length - but only if they book with non-refundable fares. Refundable fare bookings still require a full deposit. This offer is available on all RCI cruises - excluding only China roundtrips. The USD 100 pp deposit is applicable when booking Interior Cabin up to Junior Suite.

• Grand Suite and above stateroom bookings require a full deposit.
• Group bookings are also not eligible for the USD 100 pp deposit.
• In case non-refundable fare bookings are canceled, "Future Cruise Credit" will not be issued.

Currently, the only benefit from onboard cruise booking is the future onboard credit (abbrev OBC), which is based on cabin type:

• 4-5 night itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 25 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 50), Grand Suite and higher (USD 150)
• 6-9 night itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 50 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 100), Grand Suite and higher (USD 300)
• 10-night and longer itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 100 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 200), Grand Suite and higher (USD 500).

In May 2019, RCI introduced the "Book Later" booking option available at all ships' NextCruise Offices, in addition to "Book Now" (booking a specific itinerary). Book Later allows future bookings up to 2 months thus providing more time to consider itineraries while retaining the shipboard booking discount/bonus. Book Later requires a non-refundable deposit of USD 200 per stateroom (US$100 per cabin if booking a specific itinerary) and gives up to USD 600 in OBC or instant savings. Book Later deals expire within 1 year (after creating the onboard reservation) and the deposits paid will be lost.

RCI Cruise Cancellation Policy

Starting April 18, 2018, Royal Caribbean passengers who want to cancel an upcoming cruise without penalty have to do so farther out from the departure date than before. The new RCI cruise cancellation policy simplifies the penalty fee schedule by reducing the number of itinerary categories from 5 to 2: those of 1 to 4 nights and those 5 nights or longer.

• Under the old policy, travelers booked on 1 to 5-night-long itineraries could cancel up to 60 days prior to departure without a cancellation fee.
• The new RCI cancellation policy changes the cruise length/itinerary duration to 1 to 4 nights (including short holiday and mini-cruise deals) and requires cancellation at least 75 days before departure.
• Cruises 1- to 4- night-long canceled between 74 and 61 days out incur a fee of 50% of the total price. Cruises canceled 60 to 31 days out incur a fee of 75% of the total fare and any cruise canceled within 30 days or less of departure is not refunded at all (100% cancellation fee).
• The second tier of cancellations includes any itineraries 5 nights or longer, including cruise tours and holiday voyages. Under the old policy, cruises 6 nights or longer, holiday voyages 1 to 5 days, holiday voyages 6 nights or longer, and cruise tours had separate cancellation penalty schedules. By the new policy, itineraries 5 nights or longer must be canceled at least 90 days before departure date to avoid the cancellation fee. Previously, RCI customers could cancel 75 to 90 days before departure, depending on itinerary category.
• Cruises 5 nights or longer canceled 89 to 75 days before departure incur a penalty equal to 25% deposit paid. Cruises canceled 74 to 61 days incur penalties of 50% of the total price. Cruises canceled 60 to 31 days incur penalties of 75% of the fare Cruises canceled within 30 days or less of departure is not refunded at all (100% cancellation fee).

The previous time when RCI updated its cancellation policy was on March 7, 2016.

Shore Excursions Cancellation Policy

On June 15, 2017, Royal Caribbean International implemented a new "Shore Excursions Cancellation Policy" fleetwide. The new policy transitions from 1 day / 24-hour before land tour departure date to 48 hours before cruise port arrival date.

• Shore Excursions can be modified/changed or canceled up to 2 days / 48 hours before seaport arrival date without any penalty.
• Land Tours that involve travel by air/flights (international and domestic), trains, also special/themed events, overnight hotel stays and Private Journeys (customized tours) must be canceled 30 days before cruise departure date to avoid cancellation fees/penalties.
• In the event a land tour is canceled 48-hours before seaport arrival date, a full refund is provided to the passenger's onboard account.

At the end of March 2017, RCCL corporation launched its own land tour travel website - GoBe.com. The website is non-cruise travel-related and allows international travelers to book tours and excursions in 97 countries and 896 cities worldwide.

• As of 2017, tour prices (per person) ranged from USD 14 (Cape Town bus tour) to USD 3,785 (Rome helicopter tour).
• The new website is managed by Larry Pimentel (RCCL's Chief Destination Officer, also Azamara Club's President and CEO. The website provides full tour information, including duration, activity level, languages, etc.
• Optional custom itinerary planning is also offered.

On select voyages, RCI offers a behind-the-scenes "crew life" tour with duration 2 hours. The "All Access Crew Life Tour" (priced USD 79 pp) can be booked via CruisePlanner and offers a glimpse of what it is like to work and live on the ship.

RCI fly-cruise packages are via the company's Air2Sea program.

Non-Refundable Cruise Deposit Policy

On July 1, 2017, RCI implemented fleetwide a new, non-refundable cruise deposit program.

• USD 100 "cruise change" fee per person (pp) is imposed on each booked reservation (under "non-refundable deposit fare") opting to change the originally selected vessel and/or departure date.
• Multiple adjustments to the vessel/departure date result in the assessment of USD 100 pp change fee for each qualifying change made to the booked reservation. RCI doesn't limit the number of changes.
• Outside of final payment, when a non-refundable cruise deposit cancellation occurs, booked passengers receive "Future Cruise Certificate" in the amount of the cruise deposit, minus the USD 100 pp change fee.
• Non-refundable deposits are the only option for booking higher-grade Suites, and also for all guaranteed cabin categories.

In late February 2017, the RCCL corporation imposed a fee of USD 65 pp in case of leaving the cruise early (whatever the reason might be). Passengers who refuse to pay face the prospect of being banned from RCCL cruise ships FOREVER.

RCI pet/animal policy

In August 2018, RCI updated its "emotional support animals" policy by banning such animals fleetwide. Support/companion animals are not recognized by ADA. By definition, these are pets determined by a medical professional as providing benefits for handicapped people (cruise passengers with disabilities).

In an officially issued statement, RCI explained as the main reason for its policy change to differentiate support from service animals, the latter of which are trained and certified to help the disabled. Service animals traveling with physically / non-physically disabled passengers are still allowed on the ships. Pets are not allowed on RCI ships.

Photo packages prices

In late June 2017, RCI added two photo packages (available for online purchasing at CruisePlanner) both including two options - digital (unlimited photos are uploaded on a USB stick) and printed.

• The unlimited digital photo package costs US$250.
• The 50-prints/digitals photo package costs US$140.
• The 20-prints/digitals photo package costs US$200.
• The 10-prints/digitals photo package costs US$110.
• The 5-prints/digitals photo package costs US$70.

Before 2017, RCI offered photo packages for online purchasing on a separate website.

Private photo sessions can be also booked.

RCI "Cruise Compass" (onboard newsletter)

"Cruise Compass" is named the RCI's onboard newsletter delivered by cabin attendants each evening. This is a daily guide for news, onboard events, and activities on the cruise ship scheduled for the next day.

The newsletter also provides valuable information regarding forecasted weather, bars with drink specials, itinerary ports of call and shore excursions info, themed events (parties, lectures, seminars, etc), sporting events.

• Some of the events are not repeated, other activities change daily.
• RCI doesn't publish "Cruise Compass" guides for upcoming cruises in advance.
• age 1 is an overview of what to expect the next day, including port, weather report, specials, highlighted events, dedicated "Important things to know today" section.
• Page 2 lists more onboard events, sales, and special offers. The "Activity and Entertainment Highlights" section lists headlines of all evening show performances onboard,
• Page 3 lists all the ship's venues (bars, restaurants, food bars, lounges, Spa, Gym, etc) and their opening hours. Here is also the RCI's main dining room dress code. At the page's bottom is the "drink of the day" special - a discount-priced cocktail.
• Page 4 lists all the next day's activities broken down by time (morning, afternoon, evening) - all shipboard events, each has time, title and deck location.
• "Adventure Ocean" is another newsletter providing information about kids programming (small children and teens) scheduled on the cruise ship. Some of these events are also listed in the "Cruise Compass". "Adventure Ocean" newsletter has "Daily Planner" with kids and teen activities (broken up by ages).

The "Royal iQ" app is available on some RCI ships and features a "Cruise Compass" digital copy. This mobile app allows adding specific events directly to your own digital calendar. Via the app, you can make reservations (spa, dining, etc) or add activities directly from the "Cruise Compass" to your own calendar. Your own daily schedule will be automatically updated. Unfortunately, the app works only on Quantum- and Oasis-class ships.

RCI's shipboard All Access Tour (aka behind-the-scenes tour)

Like most mainstream brands, RCI offers a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship providing access to areas where passengers are otherwise not allowed to visit.

Conducted only on a sea day, the 2-hour "All Access Tour" is a walking tour of 6x areas - Galley/Kitchen, Navigation Bridge (the Wheelhouse and both bridge wings), Engines/control room, waste management (trash separation and disposal), laundry room (deck 1), food storage rooms, the Royal Theater (backstage). Participants are required to wear pants and closed-toed shoes, and are provided with earpieces to hear the tour guide's narration. The tour leader also often hands off the technical explanations to a crew working in the visited area for more detailed information on the facilities.

RCI's shipboard "DreamWorks Experience" program

"DreamWorks Experience" was a family-themed program via a partnership between Royal Caribbean International and Amblin Partners (DreamWorks SKG's owner company). Universal Pictures is the distributor of DreamWorks movie productions through its subsidiary company Touchstone Pictures.

RCI's DreamWorks programming featured 3D movies and DreamWorks characters meets-and-greets. It was introduced in June 2010 and terminated in March 2019. This new entertainment program was geared toward families and offered DreamWorks movie-themed activities on only 9 RCI ships (Allure, Oasis, Harmony, Anthem, Ovation, Quantum, Freedom, Liberty, Voyager). The list of such activities included:

• DreamWorks characters meetings and greetings (with photo ops). The list of characters included Po ("Kung Fu Panda" movie), Shrek, Fiona, Puss ("Shrek" series), Alex, Gloria, King Julien, penguins ("The Penguins of Madagascar" series, "All Hail King Julien" series).
• Character Breakfasts were offered (at surcharge pp) in the Main Dining Room restaurant.
• 3D DreamWorks movie screenings were available in the Royal Theater (Cinema Lounge), including first-run movies which premiered on the ship were on the same day they went at land-based theaters. Among the films were "Shrek", "Madagascar", "How to Train Your Dragon", "Kung Fu Panda".
• DreamWorks channel was part of the in-cabin TV programming.
• Themed activities and games (by ship's "Adventure Ocean" / complimentary youth program) included 3D animation workshops, storytime, themed dance parties, character story-based adventure games, regular character visits to kids facilities, onboard parades, meet-and-greets with photo ops (throughout the ship).
• DreamWorks shows were available in Studio B (ice rink theater) and AquaTheater (Oasis ships).

The DreamWorks-themed shows at Studio B and AquaTheater were replaced with new Royal Caribbean Productions. All cruises departing before April 1 (2019) had the DreamWorks program available for the entire voyage.

RCI's shipboard kids and teen programming

Also complimentary the company offers to kids and teenagers supervised activities at dedicated facilities and youth counselors on each vessel.

For toddlers (2-3 yo) on each liner are provided at-fee nursery services (hourly charge) via highly experienced and professionally trained staff.

RCI's children program (named "Adventure Ocean") covers ages 2-17 and features brand partnerships (with Fisher-Price, Crayola), Family Disco Hour. dedicated areas and facilities, including toddlers-only pools, computer rooms, video game arcades, separate kids- and teen-only clubs.

On September 30, 2018, RCI discontinued fleetwide its in-cabin babysitting service ("Sitters at Sea" program served by crew members, upon request). Service's only alternatives still available are the shipboard nursery (on some liners only, serving toddlers and kids up to 3 yo) and group sitting ("Late Night Party Zone" program for kids 3-11 yo, served by Adventure Ocean staff). The other two kids programs (Adventure Ocean, Royal Babies, and Tots) remained unchanged.

Shipboard VIP passenger program

Currently, RCI offers two VIP packages available for prepurchasing before boarding the ship - "The Key" and "Premier Pass".

VIP package The Key

On two liners (Liberty OTS and Oasis OTS) was tested the new VIP passenger access program "The Key". The program's test period was between November 2018 and March 2019. It was in limited quantity and available on select voyages.

The VIP package is available for purchase only via CruisePlanner. Currently, the package's cost is USD 25,99 per person per day. However, all roommates ages 6 and older must purchase the package to receive its benefits (available via SeaPass cards and starting on embarkation day).

"The Key" VIP package is inclusive of:

• Carry-on luggage service (max 2 bags pp) - drop off at Royal Theater or MDR (by 2 pm), cabin delivery
• Welcome MDR lunch (Chops Grille/steakhouse menu) on embarkation day between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Dining reservations are not required.
• Daily private visits (reserved hours) at signature shipboard facilities - including FlowRider, Rock-Climbing Walls, Ice-Skating Rink. VIP seating at live shows must be reserved online (via CruisePlanner) prior departure.
• Early access at the cruise terminal, priority check-in (embarkation day) and tendering (ship-to-shore ferry) service at call ports without docking facilities.
• Complimentary room service (during the entire voyage)
• 25% discount on all shipboard dining purchases
• Early access at the Theater's shows (reservations are required)
• Complimentary VOOM Internet ("Surf and Stream" package for 1 device).
• Priority debarkation with exclusive a la carte breakfast (between 6:30-9:30 am).

IMPORTANT: Currently, "The Key" package is not offered only on Majesty OTS , Quantum OTS and Voyager OTS . Priority check-in and boarding are not offered in Vancouver BC Canada and at Australian homeports.

VIP package "Premier Pass"

The "Premier Pass" package is for two passengers (sharing a stateroom) and includes the following perks:

• Welcome Champagne (bottle of Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin)
• Priority embarkation/tendering/debarkation
• All Access Tour (2-hour walking tour of 6x areas)
• Officer's lunch invitation (meal with an officer)
• Captain's Cocktail Reception (toast and photo)
• Exclusive food and wine pairing (with sommelier service and complimentary wine)
• Unlimited Internet (for 2x devices)
• Laundry service (1x bag per cabin)

The VIP package Premier Pass was introduced in March 2023.

Premier Pass costs US$89 (US$44,50 pp).

(NEW) RoyalUp - cabin upgrade bidding

On November 28, 2018, RCI introduced fleetwide bid-based cabin upgrade program called "RoyalUp". Booked customers receive an email if their cruise is eligible. They can browse through available for booking higher-grade staterooms on that voyage. Then select their bidding price for a particular cabin upgrade and submit the bid.

RoyalUp upgrades are priced per person, for the entire voyage, based on twin share. Only the first and second passengers in the cabin are charged the extra - regardless room's grade and max occupancy. These upgrades are based on availability. Cabin location can't be specified.

Group bookings are also included but without a guarantee that all reservations will be upgraded. If all reservations are upgraded, RCI doesn't guarantee that all upgraded staterooms will be located close together.

Booked customers are allowed to bid multiple cabin categories. Travel agents are also allowed to bid for their clients. Upgrade bids are accepted until 2 days prior departure. Passengers with accepted RoyalUp biddings are notified via email. They are allowed also to modify or cancel the upgrade (until 2 days prior departure) if the offer is not been accepted by RCI and their credit card is not been charged.

RCI's wedding packages and vow renewals

Call port/ashore or onboard cruise ship weddings and vow renewals are available by contacting RCI's weddings department a minimum 90 days before the itinerary's departure date. The company assigns dedicated coordinators for customizing the ceremonies and the reception events, as well as assisting with marriage licenses.

Standard wedding packages include priority services (dockside check-in and boarding), non-denominational officiant, pre-recorded music, 3-tier cake, chocolate-covered strawberries, a specialty restaurant dinner and in-bed breakfast (onboard), themed cabin decorations, 1-hour photo service, 1x champagne bottle (Moet & Chandon), keepsake wedding certificate (listing the ship/cruise port).

Wedding package add-ons may include beauty services (haircuts/styling, nails, barber), live music, DJ (private party), cocktail reception (at a VIP venue with bar service).

Wedding packages are priced between USD 2000-5600 (the couple plus 10-75 guests).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, RCG suspended its global fleet's passenger shipping operations (RCI-Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, Silversea) worldwide by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 15, 2020, through early-July 2021.

Next are listed all RCI ships and their first departure dates/regions/homeports - ADVENTURE OTS (June 12, 2021/ Caribbean from Nassau Bahamas ), ALLURE OTS (Aug 8, 2021/Port Canaveral), ANTHEM OTS (July 7, 2021/Europe-UK from Southampton), BRILLIANCE OTS (Dec 16, 2021/Tampa), ENCHANTMENT OTS (Dec 23, 2021/Bahamas-Caribbean from Baltimore), EXPLORER OTS (Nov 7, 2021/Caribbean from San Juan Puerto Rico), FREEDOM OTS (July 2, 2021/Miami), GRANDEUR OTS (Dec 5, 2021/ Caribbean from Bridgetown Barbados ), HARMONY OTS (Aug 15, 2021/Mediterranean from Barcelona), INDEPENDENCE OTS (Aug 15, 2021/Galveston), JEWEL OTS (July 10, 2021/ Mediterranean from Limassol Cyprus ), LIBERTY OTS (Oct 3, 2021/Galveston), MARINER OTS (Aug 23, 2021/Port Canaveral), NAVIGATOR OTS (Nov 19, 2021/Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles), OASIS OTS (Sept 5, 2021/Florida-Bahamas from NYC), ODYSSEY OTS (July 31, 2021/Fort Lauderdale), OVATION OTS (Aug 13, 2021 and May 5, 2022 / Alaska from Seattle ), QUANTUM OTS (Dec 1, 2020/ cruises to nowhere from Singapore, and May 4, 2022/Alaska from Seattle), RADIANCE OTS (April 23, 2022/LA to Vancouver-Alaska), RHAPSODY OTS (May 23, 2022/Europe-Mediterranean from Rome), SERENADE OTS (July 19, 2021/ Alaska from Seattle ), SPECTRUM OTS (Oct 14, 2021/ cruises to nowhere from Hong Kong China), SYMPHONY OTS (Aug 14, 2021/Miami), VISION OTS (March 7, 2022/Fort Lauderdale), VOYAGER OTS (April 15, 2022/Europe), WONDER OTS (March 4, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale).

• ODYSSEY OTS was scheduled to start on June 2nd Eastern Mediterranean roundtrips from Haifa Israel. However, due to "unrest in Israel and the region", this Cyprus and Greece program was canceled in May.
• VISION OTS was scheduled to start on June 26th Bahamas roundtrips from Bermuda (King's Wharf), but the program was canceled.
• Royal Caribbean's Australia 2021-2022 winter program was canceled due to travel restriction uncertainties. Two ships were affected - QUANTUM OTS from Brisbane (planned restart October 30) and OVATION OTS from Sydney (planned restart December 13).
• VOYAGER OTS had scheduled an Asian 2021 program with homeporting in Tianjin-Beijing (China to Japan, starting August 1) and in Singapore (starting November 4), but in July 2021 the program was canceled through April 2022.
• In August 2021, RCI postponed the restarts of BRILLIANCE OTS (planned for Sept 4/Tampa), RADIANCE OTS (for Oct 15/Miami), and RHAPSODY OTS (for Dec 14/Tampa). The affected bookings were moved to similar out-of-Tampa voyages on SERENADE OTS.

All affected bookings received full refunds (100%), including on prepurchased through RCI cruise packages and services. With rebooking are offered 125% refunds in FCC (future cruise credit) to be used on itineraries that depart up to September 30, 2022. The FCC must be redeemed by December 31, 2021. Full cash refund or changing the FCC to a monetary refund (100%) must be done by March 31, 2021. Within 45 days (from the cancellation date), all taxes, port fees and pre-purchased (if any) packages/amenities are automatically refunded to the original form of payment.

RCI's Cancellation Policy (Cruise with Confidence) was extended to allow penalty-free cancellations up to 48 hours prior to departure (all itineraries) and receive an FCC. The policy was also enhanced with two new rebooking options - "Best Price Guarantee" (you can change the price and promo offers on the booking up to 48 hours prior to departure) and "Lift and Shift" (you can rebook the same itinerary departing within 1 month from the canceled date, with protected original price and promo offer and keeping the same cabin category).

In the period August-December 2021, all unvaccinated passengers (12 and older) on RCI cruises from Florida ports were required to have a valid insurance policy of a minimum US$25,000 pp (medical expense coverage) and US$50,000 pp (for onboard quarantine and COVID-related medevac). Before this new policy, RCI covered up to US$20,000 per person for Coronavirus-related costs. The money was for shipboard medical treatments and safe quarantine plus providing safe return-to-home travel arrangements. If a passenger tested COVID-positive while on the ship, RCI also provided a full monetary refund (100% of the cruise price) for the infected and his/her travel companions.

In mid-December 2020, RCI sold the ships Empress OTS (30-years-old) and Majesty OTS (28-years-old) were sold to an Asian company (undisclosed shipowner).

In Aug 2022, RCI announced that allows unused FCCs (future cruise credits left from a booking/remainder balance) to be redeemed as OBCs/onboard credits.

Itinerary of Royal Caribbean

RCI offers year-round roundtrip departures from Baltimore MD (South Locust Point Terminal) where is currently homeported Enchantment OTS. The ship cruises to ports in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Canada-New England. The fleetmate Grandeur OTS operated out of Baltimore between 2013-2020.

Comic-Con Cruise 2025

Serenade OTS is RCI's first ship to host a Comic-Con - an annual event by San Diego Comic-Con International (1970-inaugurated as "Golden State Comic Book Convention").

The special voyage (February 5-9, 2025, roundtrip from Tampa Florida ) is a full-ship charter by Entertainment Cruise Productions (Clayton Missouri-based company) specializing in themed voyages.

Royal Caribbean's Comic-Con cruise ship experience will feature various small group events (including Q&A sessions, trivia, fun contests), video gaming competitions, parties (dancing, karaoke, cosplay/costume play, DJs).

When the announcement was made (in July 2023) prices (per person) varied between US$990 (interior cabin) and US$5620 (Royal Suite) with double occupancy, while single occupancy was US$1240 (interior).

IMPORTANT/Itinerary changes 2024-2025 (Europe-Caribbean-Alaska-Australia)

RCI's Australia 2024-2025 season is based on the ships (homeports) - Quantum (Brisbane QLD) and Ovation (Sydney NSW).

RCI's Alaska 2025 program is based on 4 ships (Anthem, Quantum, Radiance, Serenade), mainly 7-day itineraries and homeporting in Seattle WA, Vancouver BC, and Seward AK. Quantum OTS visits destinations like Sitka, Skagway, Endicott Arm fjord, Dawes Glacier, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Victoria BC. Serenade OTS Inside Passage voyages visit Haines, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan. Radiance OTS operates between Seward and Vancouver and visits Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier.

In February 2024, RCI opened for booking Wonder OTS' short Caribbean voyages. Starting September 1st, 2025. the ship changes homeports (Port Canaveral to Miami) offering 3- and 4-night roundtrips out of PortMiami. Previously, (from Port Canaveral) were operated 7-day roundtrips.

In July 2024 was announced that In 2025, Ovation OTS will be redeployed from Asia to California USA (homeported in  Los Angeles ) joining Navigator  OTS. In summer 2025, out of LA, Ovation OTS will offer 3-5-6-night roundtrip itineraries.

Ultimate World Cruise 2023-2024 (Serenade OTS)

In October 2021, RCI announced the company's first World Cruise , which is also one of the world's longest.

The 274-night itinerary (themed "Ultimate World Cruise"/December 10, 2023, through September 10, 2024) is scheduled for Serenade OTS/wiki section .

The roundtrip from Miami visits 150 ports/islands (57 new for RCI) in 65 countries and on all 7 continents.

Shorter segments included:

• (Dec 10 - Feb 11) "Round the Horn: Americas and Antarctica Expedition" itinerary visits 36 ports/islands, 3 continents, and destinations in the Caribbean, Central and South America, Cape Horn, Antarctica, Rio de Janeiro (New Year's Eve overnight), Los Angeles (overnight).
• (Feb 11 - May 9) "Wonders of Asia and the Pacific Expedition" itinerary visits 40 ports/islands, 3 continents, and destinations in North America (Hawaii), Oceania (French Polynesia), New Zealand, Australia, Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, India, Japan).
• (May 9 - July 10) "Middle East Treasures and Marvels of the Med Expedition" itinerary visits 44 ports, 3 continents, and destinations in Arabia (Dubai, Jordan), Africa (Egypt), Mediterranean (Turkey, Greece, Italy, France, Spain), Adriatic (Croatia).
• (July 10 - Sept 10) "Capitals of Culture" itinerary visits 40 ports, 3 continents and destinations in the Mediterranean (Spain, Morocco), Baltic (Russia/St Petersburg, Norway), with the Transatlantic crossing from Europe to the USA (via Iceland and NYC New York) ending in PortMiami.

Full-paid early bookings (made by January 6, 2023) received a 10% discount. Additional costs include taxes-fees-port charges (USD 4667 USD pp).

A Balcony stateroom cost USD 75,000 ($136 pp per day), the 4-passenger Royal Suite cost USD 760,000.

In April 2023, RCI opened for booking more shorter segments of the Ultimate World Cruise 2024:

• 26-days (Dec 10, 2023 - Jan 5, 2024) "Ultimate Caribbean and South America" itinerary (Miami to Buenos Aires)
• 18-days (Jan 5-23) "Ultimate South America and Antarctica" itinerary (Buenos Aires to Valparaiso-Santiago)
• 19-days (Jan 23 - Feb 11) "Ultimate Central and South America" itinerary (Valparaiso-Santiago to Los Angeles)
• 29-days (Feb 11 - Mar 11) "Ultimate Hawaii, Tahiti and Australia" itinerary (Los Angeles to Brisbane)Papeete Tahiti), New Zealand (Auckland, Russel-Bay of Islands) and NSW Australia (Sydney, Newcastle).
• 16-days (Mar 11-27) "Ultimate Australia and Southeast Asia" itinerary (Brisbane to Hong Kong China)
• 12-days (Mar 27 - Apr 8) "Ultimate China, Japan and South Korea" itinerary (Hong Kong to Tianjin-Beijing China)
• 16-days (Apr 8-24) "Ultimate Japan, Vietnam and Singapore" itinerary (Beijing to Singapore)
• 15-days (Apr 24 - May 9) "Ultimate India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia" itinerary (Singapore to Dubai)
• 18-days (May 9-27) "Ultimate Jordan, Egypt and Israel" itinerary (Dubai to Piraeus-Athens Greece)
• 11-days (May 27 - Jun 7) "Ultimate Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey" Black Sea itinerary (Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul)
• 13-days (Jun 7-20) "Ultimate Greece, Turkey and Italy" itinerary (Istanbul to Ravenna-Venice)
• 11-days (Jun 20 - Jul 1) "Ultimate Italy, Croatia and Malta" Adriatic Sea itinerary (Ravenna-Venice and Civitavecchia-Rome)
• 9-days (Jul 1-10) "Ultimate Italy, France and Spain" itinerary (Civitavecchia-Rome to Barcelona)
• 16-days (Jul 10-26) "Ultimate Spain, Morocco and France" itinerary (Barcelona to Southampton England UK)
• 15-days (Jul 26 - Aug 10) "Ultimate Denmark, Germany and Sweden" Baltic Sea itinerary (Southampton to Copenhagen Denmark)
• 9-days (Aug 10-19) "Ultimate Norwegian Fjords" itinerary (Copenhagen to Amsterdam Holland)
• 22-days (Aug 19 - Sep 10) "Ultimate Iceland, Greenland and Caribbean" Transatlantic itinerary (Amsterdam to Miami)

RCI's World Voyage 2024 fares are inclusive of business class flights, land transportation, pre-cruise 5-star hotel overnight. Loyalty program's Platinum and above members (Emerald-Diamond-Diamond Plus-Pinnacle Club) receive as perks shore excursion package, Deluxe Beverage package, free Internet (VOOM Wi-Fi), free laundry service.

Panama Canal cruises 2024 (Rhapsody OTS)

For winter 2024, Rhapsody OTS has scheduled an RCI-first Caribbean and Latin America program based on 3x homeports - two in Panama ( Colon , and Panama City/Fuerte Amador ) and one in Colombia ( Cartagena ).

The 7-night roundtrips also visit Panama Canal and The Netherlands' ABC islands ( Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao ) in the Leeward Antilles. The Panama Canal itinerary (8x departures from Fuerte Amador) visits Cartagena, and Costa Rica's Puntarenas and Quepos .

Asia 2024-2025 ships and itineraries

In 2024-2025 (November-March) Anthem OTS is homeported in Singapore, replacing Spectrum OTS, which will be redeployed to China and homeported in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Starting in April 2024, Spectrum OTS from Shanghai offers roundtrips to Japanese ports, including Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagasaki.

Starting in December 2024, Spectrum OTS has scheduled 8x roundtrips from Hong Kong (China) to ports in Japan, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Anthem's ex-Singapore itineraries are 3-4-5-night roundtrips visiting Malaysia (Penang) and Thailand (Phuket). The new 8-night "Bali Getaway" itinerary visits Bali Indonesia's ports Celukan Bawang and Benoa Harbour, as well as Lombok Indonesia's port Lembar. Another new itinerary is the 10-night "Vietnam and Thailand" voyage that visits Vietnam's ports Nha Trang, Phu My-Saigon, and Chan May-Da Nang, and Thailand's port Laem Chabang-Bangkok (overnight stay).

UK-Europe 2024-2025 summer deployment

RIC's European summer 2024 schedule lists 8 ships and 11 homeports. The program features the European debut of Oasis OTS (5- to 17-night itineraries). Odyssey OTS and Anthem OTS return to Rome and Southampton, respectively.

Europe Summer 2024 highlights include:

• Odyssey OTS sailing from Civitavecchia-Rome (for a 3rd year) offers 7- to 9-night Greek Isles voyages, as well as 12-night Holy Land cruises to Israel (Ashdod-Jerusalem), Cyprus (Limassol), Turkey (Kusadasi).
• Oasis OTS from Rome and Barcelona offers Western Mediterranean 7-night voyages visiting France, Italy, and Spain.
• Anthem OTS from Southampton offers 7-night roundtrips to the Norwegian Fjords, or to Atlantic Europe (Spain and France). 11- to 14-night ex-UK roundtrips visit also the Canaries.
• Serenade OTS' "Ultimate World Cruise" (274-night itinerary).
• Explorer OTS sailing from Ravenna offers 7-night Med and Aegean itineraries visiting Chania (Crete), Argostoli (Greece), and Kotor (Montenegro).
• Voyager OTS (from Rome, Barcelona, Ravenna, and Athens) offers 7-night voyages to the Western and Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean Sea (Greece, Israel, Egypt).
• Jewel OTS (from Amsterdam) offers 11- to 17-night roundtrips to Iceland, UK-British Isles, Ireland, the Arctic Circle.

Enchantment OTS was to be deployed first in Australia (from Sydney) and in Alaska but was redeployed in Europe.

Europe 2025

RCI's 2025 European season (April-October) is based on 6 ships,

Independence OTS is homeported in Southampton and visits destinations in Iberia (Spain, Portugal) and Northern Europe/Baltic, Norway.

Allure OTS  is homeported in Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome for Western Mediterranean itineraries.

Brilliance OTS operates from Piraeus-Athens Greek Isles voyages until August 2025, when returns to Barcelona and Southampton.

Explorer OTS from  Ravenna Italy offers roundtrips to the Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea ports.

Odyssey OTS and Voyager OTS are both based in Civitavecchia and visit destinations in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the Adriatic.

Australia 2024-2025-2026 summer deployment (2 ships)

RCI's 2024 Australian schedule listed 2 liners (Ovation OTS and Quantum OTS) homeported, respectively, in Sydney NSW and Brisbane QLD . Australia 2025-2026 season is also based on 2 ships (Anthem OTS and Voyager OTS).

Quantum OTS (from Brisbane) offers 3- to 13-night Queensland roundtrips to Airlie Beach and Cairns or discover the South Pacific by visiting Port Vila (Vanuatu) and Noumea (New Caledonia).

Ovation OTS (from Sydney) starts its 5th Australian season - with 20 voyages, including 9- to 11-night roundtrips to New Zealand (Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, Wellington), 3- to 9-night voyages around Australia (Adelaide, Eden, Hobart Tasmania), as well as sailings to the South Pacific islands.

RCI's Australia 2024-2025 season (October thru April) is again based on Ovation OTS and Quantum OTS and groups a total of 45 departures.

Quantum OTS (out of Brisbane) offers 12 different itineraries (7-8-nights) visiting Mystery Island ,  Port Vila (Vanuatu) , and  Noumea (New Caledonia) . Five sailings visit the Great Barrier Reef , while a 14-night voyage visits New Zealand.

Both Australian ships also have scheduled 2-night and 3-night weekend getaways. Both are also deployed during summer 2025 in Alaska, and homeported in Seattle WA .

Caribbean and Bahamas 2024-2025-2026 fleet deployment

RCI's 2024-2025-2026 Caribbean schedule lists 8 ships and 20+ Caribbean destinations.

• Wonder OTS from Port Canaveral offers 7-night Western-Eastern Caribbean voyages, while Harmony OTS from Galveston offers 6- to 8-night Western Caribbean with CocoCay. Starting September 1st, 2025. Wonder moves to Miami for short itineraries (3- and 4-night roundtrips).
• In summer 2024, Symphony OTS offers 7-night Bahamas roundtrips out of NYC/Bayonne NJ, while Freedom OTS offers 7-8-night Western-Eastern-Southern Caribbean itineraries.
• Liberty OTS from Bayonne/NYC offers 4-5-9-night roundtrips to Eastern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England.
• Adventure OTS from Port Canaveral offers 6- and 8-night Southern-Eastern-Western Caribbean and Bahamas roundtrips.
• Enchantment OTS from Tampa offers 7-night Western Caribbean plus select 7-night Bahamas itineraries.
• Vision OTS from Baltimore sails 5- to 12-day roundtrips to Bermuda, Bermuda plus Bahamas, Florida+Bahamas, Southern Caribbean, and Canada-New England.

RCI's 3- to 6-night Caribbean cruises scheduled for 2025-2026 originate from six USA homeports (in Florida, California, and Texas). Utopia OTS and Wonder OTS are based in Port Canaveral/Orlando and Miami, respectively.

Navigator OTS and Quantum OTS are homeported in Los Angeles .

RCI's Caribbean fleet (Enchantment, Explorer, Freedom, Jewel, Liberty, Mariner) is based in Tampa FL , Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale FL , and Galveston TX .

Caribbean short breaks 2024-2025

RCI's Caribbean short break 2024-2025 itineraries are scheduled for 8 ships, including 1x OASIS-class (Allure OTS from Port Canaveral).

Year-Round 2024-2025 Short Getaways

Allure OTS (from Port Canaveral and PortMiami) is the first OASIS-class boat with year-round season of 3-4-night itineraries.

Independence OTS (from Miami) offers 5-night Western Caribbean plus CocoCay voyages, as well as 4-night Eastern Caribbean (with Labadee Haiti).

Mariner OTS (from Galveston Texas) offers 4-5-night roundtrips to Mexico (Cozumel+Costa Maya).

Navigator OTS (from Los Angeles California) offers 3-4-7-night voyages to Catalina Island, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Ensenada.

Seasonal 2024-2025 Short Cruises from Florida

Enchantment OTS (from Tampa Bay) offers 4-5-night Mexico (Cozumel+Costa Maya), and 7-night summer voyages (Roatan, Belize City, Cozumel, Costa Maya, CocoCay).

Grandeur OTS (from Tampa and Fort Lauderdale) offers 4-5-night Bahamas and Mexico (CocoCay, Cozumel) and during winter 5-night roundtrips to Labadee and Amber Cove Dominicana.

Liberty OTS (from Fort Lauderdale) offers 3-4-night roundtrips to Bahamas (CocoCay+Nassau).

Voyager OTS (from Port Canaveral) during winter offers 4-5-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages to CocoCay, Nassau, Cozumel, Amber Cove, Labadee.

RCI-Royal Caribbean itineraries by ship

Follows a review of the Royal Caribbean itinerary program scheduled itineraries. For sailing dates (departures, arrivals), ports of call times and RCI cruise prices per person follow the ship pages listed below.

Royal Caribbean's "Private Journeys" excursions

RCI passengers seeking personalized shore excursion experiences can take advantage of the company's "Private Journeys" program.

The USD 100 concierge service enables passengers to book port calls tailored to their interests, travel style and budget. Private Journeys (custom-made tours) allow access to 1 of 9 professional Destination Insiders who help planning every detail of the shore excursion before the cruise starts. Activities can include private yachting, cooking with Michelin-starred chefs, food tasting. The USD 100 fee for Private Journeys is applicable to excursion's final cost.

Private Journeys are offered as a 3rd excursion choice (besides independent and RCI-sponsored group tours). The new choice offers direct booking through RCI (ONLY via Royal Caribbean). Booked passengers have to provide Private Journeys' staff with their idea/basics of what they want (duration, preferred places, activities, meals, etc). Then they work with local (professional) tour guides to design the excursion. The contact with Private Journeys is by email or phone.

"Private Journeys" RCI tour deals guarantee: priority disembarkation, sure return to the cruise ship (if the tour runs late, the ship waits for you), convenient access to private tour vehicles, quality of service (reputable/insured operators in direct contact with the RCI cruise ship's personnel).

Royal Caribbean cruises to Cuba from Florida (Miami and Tampa)

Royal Caribbean operated Cuba cruises with the Miami -homeported (later in Tampa) Empress of the Seas . The first Cuban cruise was on April 19, 2017 (5-night Miami to Costa Maya and Havana).

The newly-refreshed Empress OTS had scheduled a total of 58 voyages (4- and 5-night itineraries) in the period January 2018 through March 2019, with more than half offering overnights in havana. Empress was homeported in Tampa for summer 2018, for 4- and 5-night itineraries to Key West, Costa Maya, Cozumel and Havana (on most voyages). For the winter 2018-2019 season, the ship repositioned to Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale).

On December 1, 2017, RCI added 2 new Cuban ports (Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos) included in 4- to 8-night long Caribbean itineraries on Empress of the Seas. The new 7-night "Best of Cuba" itinerary from Miami visits Cienfuegos , Havana, and Nassau. The 5-night itinerary visits Key West Florida and Havana (overnight). The 8-night itinerary visits Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba , Grand Cayman Island, and Labadee Haiti .

Majesty of the Seas offered 4- and 5-night itineraries to Havana (day visits and overnights) leaving roundtrip from Tampa (in the period April-October 2018) and from Fort Lauderdale (November 2018 through March 2019). In July 2017, RCI unveiled the company's 2nd ship to Cuba - Majesty OTS, homeported in Port Canaveral. Starting March 25, 2019, the liner offered a 4-night voyage calling at Havana.

On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.

Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government for allowing ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.

Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-min ling JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.

Royal Caribbean related cruise news

RCI-Royal Caribbean to resume sailings to Labadee (Haiti) in October 2024

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RCI-Royal Caribbean cancels bookings due to lifeboat damage on Rhapsody OTS

RCI-Royal Caribbean has informed passengers of booking cancellations for an upcoming cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas on Sunday, September 15th due to...

12-year-old kid died after falling on RCI-Royal Caribbean’s ship Harmony OTS

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RCI-Royal Caribbean and Goldbelt partner to bring Starlink Internet to downtown Juneau

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USCG airlifts 26-yo crew from Royal Caribbean's ship Navigator OTS near San Diego

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Grand Bahama Shipyard secures $665M transformation deal to become world's largest cruise ship...

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•   show more news

Cruise embarkation day guide: How to start your sailing off smoothly

• Cruise lines typically notify guests via email or their app that they can check in and choose from several arrival times.
• Once on board, the first thing to do is go to your muster station, a designated meeting point for guests and crew in the event of an emergency.
• Staterooms on major cruise lines are typically available around 1 p.m. after crew members finish turning them over from the previous sailing.

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When Mike Smith takes a cruise , he doesn’t waste any time. Cabins often aren’t ready for guests until early afternoon, so the 35-year-old brings a swimsuit in his backpack and changes in one of the public bathrooms after boarding. Then he grabs a drink and sits by the pool.

“I really want to use my two hours to relax, enjoy,” said Smith, who teaches American Sign Language and makes travel content on his Instagram account . “I don't want to have to idly walk around and wait for my luggage.”

While Smith – who has taken nearly 10 cruises just in the past two years – has his embarkation day routine down, first-time passengers may find themselves wondering what parts of the ship are open, when their luggage will arrive and more.

Here’s what to expect.

How do I prepare for cruise embarkation day?

Smith starts getting ready to board well before his departure date.

Cruise lines typically notify guests via email or their app that they can check in and choose from several arrival times. Smith said he tries to get the “earliest boarding time possible.”

“I'll try my very best to do it that day when they (say) you can,” he said. Cruise lines encourage guests to check in ahead of time.

“Due to government regulations requiring cruise lines to submit final departure manifests at least 60 minutes prior to sailing, guests are requested to complete check-in no later than 3 days prior to their cruise,” Royal Caribbean International said on its website , for example. “If you do not complete check-in 3 days prior, you will be required to complete this process at the pier at least two hours prior to the published sailing time.”

Smith also likes to look over the deck plans for the ship, which are usually available online, to familiarize himself with the layout. 

“Otherwise, sometimes day one becomes, like, walking to one end of the ship and going, ‘Oh, wait, it's not over here, it's over there,’ and then turning around,” he said. “And I think mitigating any kind of frustration is always a good way to start a cruise.”

What happens on cruise embarkation day?

At the port, passengers can check luggage with a porter and go through security before getting on the ship.

Once on board, Smith said the “first, first, first, first” thing he does is go to his muster station, a designated meeting point for guests and crew in the event of an emergency. Muster drills used to be more involved , but the process can usually now be completed by watching a safety video and checking in at the assigned locale. All guests must do so before the ship sets sail.

“I think a lot of people, especially people who haven’t cruised in a long time, they might have my childhood trauma, which was putting on that life jacket and standing outside by the lifeboats and listening to the horn blow and going through all those instructions,” he said. “And every cruise I've been on now for the past two years, everything's in the app.”

In Smith’s experience, staterooms on major cruise lines are typically available around 1 p.m. after crew members finish turning them over from the previous sailing.

Checked luggage is left outside guests’ cabins, but delivery times can vary. Smith tries to bring enough items in his backpack – which he carries with him during boarding – that he doesn’t need anything from his suitcase until the evening.

Once his bags arrive, he “1000%” unpacks everything that day. “I like to do it; my boyfriend is adamant about it,” he said. “He's the driving force.”

Once the suitcases are empty, they slide them under the bed, which can create some extra room for guests in the sometimes tight quarters of cruise cabins.

What’s open on embarkation day?

Smith has found that many onboard amenities are accessible to guests on embarkation day.

But there is one he likes to avoid just after boarding: the buffet. Many passengers tend to go straight there, causing it to get packed.

He prefers to eat before getting on the ship, so he doesn't have to worry about grabbing food right away.

Other venues, like specialty restaurants, may also not be open until dinner on the first day of a cruise.

From cell service to Wi-Fi: How to stay connected on a cruise ship

And while large cruise ships often have a range of retail stores, they generally aren’t open while in port. Smith recommended that guests bring items like sunscreen and any medications they might need in case the shops are closed or they don’t have what they’re looking for.

He also uses time after embarkation to make reservations for specialty dining and peruse the entertainment schedule, making notes on his phone of the activities and shows he and his boyfriend want to attend.

“And then I just put whatever we're doing there so we don't have to really think about anything because the last thing I really want to do on vacation is think a lot,” Smith said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Royal Caribbean Returns to Labadee Next Month

Doug Parker

• September 16, 2024

Royal Caribbean International plans to resume visits to Labadee, Haiti in October 2024 after temporarily halting trips earlier this year due to violence and instability.

Labadee, a private destination exclusive to the cruise line, has been off itineraries since March 2024 , due to growing unrest, including a massive prison break, which prompted safety concerns.

However, with recent regional improvements—such as the return of airlines and an increase in peace-keeping efforts—the cruise line is optimistic about resuming operations.

Adventure of the Seas, First Ship to Resume at Labadee on October 8, 2024

In a message to a guest, Royal Caribbean confirmed the return, saying, “Labadee is one of our fan-favorite private destinations and we are ready and excited to return to Labadee in October 2024!”

Other Royal Caribbean ships , including the Freedom of the Seas and Independence of the Seas , will also visit Labadee in October, followed by the Grandeur in November.

These ships will continue to include Labadee in their winter Caribbean itineraries.

Royal Caribbean is the first major cruise line to restart visits to Haiti. Celebrity Cruises, a sister brand, will not return to Labadee until February 2025.

Labadee has been a beloved stop for cruise guests, known for its beaches, zip line, and water activities. The return of these voyages is seen as a positive sign for Haiti’s tourism industry, which has struggled in recent years due to political instability.

Haiti’s political instability worsened after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. This led to widespread unrest and security concerns, prompting Royal Caribbean to  cease its visits  to the nation in early 2024.

• Royal Caribbean Returns to Private Destination Labadee [PHOTOS]
• Royal Caribbean Replacing Labadee Calls Due to Unrest in Haiti

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Viking reveals the best of the Far East and Southeast Asia, painting a canvas with brushstrokes of lush jungle, fishing villages and modern cities. Experience India’s temples, Jakarta’s street cuisine and ports such as Tokyo and Shanghai. Here are a few highlights you will enjoy:

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GATEWAY TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

Singapore cruises.

Revel in this republic's eclectic mix of historical tradition and modern charm with a cruise to Singapore.

One of the most forward-thinking destinations in Southeast Asia, Singapore is where billionaires go to blow off steam, the world's most brilliant minds gather to discuss the technology of the future, and multicultural history is embraced through art, architecture and stories. Cruise to Singapore to feel the gentle humidity of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a rainforest that dominates the center of the country, or take a stroll down Haji Lane in the city center, an eclectic neighborhood with bold, colorful Malay murals on every wall. For a mix of history and modern culture, explore the Muslim roots at the proud gold and white Sultan Mosque. Don't miss the Gardens on the Bay, home to futuristic supertrees, and walk the connecting 22-meter high OCBC Skyway that overlooks the city. Discover the magic with a Singapore cruise.

Save Big With These Singapore Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Singapore cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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A MULTICULTURAL MECCA

Mandarin, English, Tamil and Malay are all official languages of Singapore, creating a truly multicultural epicenter for the world. Get onboard the best Singapore cruises and head to the city center to see how many cultures live harmoniously in the tightly packed, themed neighborhoods. 

LIVE THE GLAM LIFE

Kampong Glam is the epicenter of Malay-speaking Singapore. You'll find a fascinating mix of architecture packed into a small space that draws from a complex cultural heritage. Shop along the trendsetting Haji street, lined with gigantic gorgeous murals, or stand in awe of the gold and white Sultan Mosque, a structure so big, North Bridge road was forced to bend around it.

INDIA TRANSPORTED

If you hear Bollywood music drifting lazily between buildings and smell the complex fragrance of curry spice in the air, you must be in Little India. Cruise to Singapore and walk along the friendly neighborhood packed full of food stalls, Hindu temples and budget-friendly shopping centers. Head to Mustafa Shopping Center for retail therapy, or witness the wonders of the colorful Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, an opulent temple dedicated to the goddesses Kali and Parvati.

CHINESE TREATS

You'll find delectable treats on every corner in Singapore during your vacation. Stroll along the bold red and gold streets of China Town to pick up some delicious Chinese street food. Head to the Street Market to dine on the best crispy duck over noodles, golden satay and freshly steamed dim sum. Before you leave, be sure to check out the Sri Mariamman Temple and its vivid sculpture work.

BIG CITY DREAMING

Singapore is full of new money and Cinderella stories. From the natural landscapes to the modern architecture, see the glitz and glam up close and personal when you cruise to Singapore. 

THE RICHEST HOTEL IN TOWN

Marina Bay Sands sits proudly above all other buildings, famously transforming the Singaporean skyline. Head to the top of the 55-story tower to catch an aerial glimpse of the city center, or book a room for the night to gain access to the rooftop bar and pool, where you can relax in luxury.

FIVE-STAR FEAST

Looking for a five-star dining experience to write home about? Head to the Newton Food Center where hawkers are heroes, gloriously feeding thousands of hungry locals every day. Order a feast of plates, grab a table and tuck in! You'll be begging for more chili crab marinated in a sweet and spicy tomato-based sauce, BBQ grilled stingray, taro carrot cake and fresh spring rolls.

WHERE SINGAPORE BLOOMS

Iconic for its grove of gigantic, glowing supertrees, Gardens on the Bay is a futuristic location meant to inspire the city. Start your vacation adventure at Cloud Forest, home to the world's tallest human-made waterfall, and make your way to the delightful Flower Grove to walk among brightly colored buds.

Best Singapore Cruises

A cruise to Singapore is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Singapore onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

MEANDER THROUGH MALAYSIA

As a gateway to Southeast Asia, Singapore rests on the coast of Malaysia. Head to the northern neighbor to see religious depth in  Penang  or to explore the diverse metropolis of  Kuala Lumpur . From humid rainforests to bustling cities, there's something for everyone in Malaysia.

TREK THROUGH THAILAND

From Singapore, continue to  Thailand  to soak up the beach vibes in sunny  Phuket . Walk the Khaosan Road to pick up colorful souvenirs, or visit the Grand Palace for a taste of Thai opulence. In Thailand, you'll get a glimpse of the beauty of Southeast Asia.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Singapore Cruises Insider

From the active city streets to the dense rainforests, Singapore is a diverse area with something for everyone.

The city is connected by a fleet of budget-friendly trains, and public transport is easy, safe and fast. While renting a car can be expensive due to road taxes, you can find affordable taxis just about anywhere in Singapore. There's no bad time to visit the country, since it's warm and humid all year long.

When you visit Singapore, you'll hear different languages mingle together in the streets. English is one of the official languages, though, so you'll easily be able to communicate with vendors. Keep an open mind on your vacation adventures — learning a few words in Tamil, Malay or Mandarin is sure to impress the locals!

7 Amazing World Heritage Sites You Can Get To On a Cruise

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Pick up a Singapore Tourist Pass for cheap, unlimited train travel for up to three days.

Public transport is excellent in Singapore, but if you prefer to use a taxi, use the Grab app for quick pickups.

Drinking alcohol after 10:30 p.m. is prohibited, so be sure to plan your night accordingly.

CUISINE UNITED BY FOOD 

Singaporeans are united by one common love: good food. It's almost impossible to walk down a street without the delicious scents of cooking food making your belly rumble!

HOKKIEN MEE, PLEASE!

Hokkien mee is one of the most popular stir-fry dishes in Singapore. The combination of egg noodles, chopped rice noodles, seafood, veggies and some chili sauce will leave you full and happy.

CHOW ON CHAI TOW

Commonly known as carrot cake, chai tow kway is actually made with daikon radish and rice flour. Fried with eggs and pork fat, it's a greasy, salty, gooey and crispy adventure on a plate.

ROAST ON RICE

Try tender slices of roast duck (expertly cooked with crispy skin) over a simple bowl of white rice. You'll definitely find the simple flavors and luxurious texture to be filling and delicious.

Related Ports

Singapore cruise ports will let you explore the wonderous world of Southeast Asia. Travel to Thailand for breathtaking sights in Phuket, immerse yourself into the cultural exploration of Bangkok, and dive into the crystal blue waters of Koh Tao. Cruise through the Gulf of Thailand and South China Sea to explore destinations like Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines. Or voyage north to explore the bustling streets of China and Taiwan or tranquil visions of Japan.

Kobe, Japan

Beppu, Japan

Busan, South Korea

Sanya, China

Shenzhen, China

Shimonoseki, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

Phuket, Thailand

Bangkok (Laemchabang), Thailand

Beijing (Tianjin), China

Benoa, Bali

Boracay, Philippines

Cochin, India

Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Vietnam

Fukuoka, Japan

Goa (Mormugao), India

Hiroshima, Japan

Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam

Hong Kong, China

Hualien, Taiwan, China

Hue / Danang (Chan May), Vietnam

Jeju (Hwasun Bay), South Korea

Kagoshima, Japan

Kaohsiung, Taiwan, China

Kitakyushu, Japan

Kochi, Japan

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

Kumamoto, Japan

Kyoto (Maizuru), Japan

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

Langkawi, Malaysia

Manila, Philippines

Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan

Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan

Nagasaki, Japan

Nagoya, Japan

Okinawa (Naha), Japan

Penang, Malaysia

Sakaiminato, Japan

Sasebo (Miura), Japan

Seoul (Incheon), South Korea

Shanghai (Baoshan), China

Singapore, Singapore

Subic Bay, Philippines

Taichung, Taiwan, China

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, China

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Hakodate, Japan

Mumbai (Bombay), India

Niigata, Japan

Okinawa (Nakagusuku), Japan

Ilocos (Salomague), Philippines

Malacca, Malaysia

Ishigaki, Japan

Hanoi (Halong Bay), Vietnam

Sapporo (Muroran), Japan

Bintan Island, Indonesia

Aomori, Japan

Sasebo (Uragashira), Japan

Miyako Island (Hirara), Japan

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Akita, Japan

Kanazawa, Japan

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Lombok, Indonesia

Jeju Island, South Korea

Salalah, Oman

Celukan Bawang, Bali

Jeju (Seogwipo), South Korea

Related Destinations

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Passenger dies on Royal Caribbean ship that left Miami for 9-month world cruise

Serenade of the seas left miami on dec. 10, 2023, on the ultimate world cruise, a 274-night, seven-continent voyage that stops at 60 countries and 11 world wonders, by nbc6 • published february 13, 2024 • updated on february 13, 2024 at 3:22 pm.

A passenger has died while on board a Royal Caribbean ship that left Miami for a nine-month "Ultimate World Cruise," the company said Tuesday.

"A guest sailing on board Serenade of the Seas has sadly passed away," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement to NBC News . "We are actively providing support and assistance to the guest's loved ones at this time. Out of the privacy of the guest and their family, we have nothing further to share at this time."

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The passenger's identity and details surrounding their death weren't released.

Serenade of the Seas left Miami on Dec. 10, 2023, on the Ultimate World Cruise, a 274-night, seven-continent voyage that stops at 60 countries and 11 world wonders.

The Hurricane season is on. Our meteorologists are ready. Sign up for the NBC 6 Weather newsletter to get the latest forecast in your inbox.

The ship has already made its way through Mexico, the Caribbean, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador on its South America leg last month. On Sunday, the Asia Pacific leg of the voyage began that will see the ship pass through Hawaii, Polynesia and Australia.

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