What’s Included On Royal Caribbean Cruise: Your Comprehensive Guide For 2023

by | Apr 18, 2023 | Cruise Travel Tips

Introduction

If you're planning a vacation on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you're in for a treat. Royal Caribbean is one of the world's largest cruise lines, with 26 ships that offer more than 94,000 berths. The company is known for its innovative ships, world-class entertainment, and exceptional dining experiences. But what's included on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a look at everything that's included on Royal Caribbean cruises, from ship amenities to dining options, and help you make the most of your vacation. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, you'll find plenty of information to help you plan your trip. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of Royal Caribbean cruises.

Accommodations

When it comes to accommodations on a Royal Caribbean cruise, there are plenty of options to choose from. The cruise line offers staterooms and suites that are designed to meet the needs of different types of travelers. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of accommodations available:

  • Interior staterooms: These staterooms are perfect for travelers who want a comfortable place to sleep at night but don’t plan on spending much time in their room. They are typically the most affordable option. 
  • Oceanview staterooms: These staterooms offer a view of the ocean through a window or porthole. They are a great option for travelers who want to enjoy the sea breeze and natural light. 
  • Balcony staterooms: These staterooms have a private balcony that allows travelers to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views without leaving their room. They are perfect for travelers who want a little more space and privacy. 
  • Suites: Royal Caribbean offers a range of suites, from Junior Suites to the expansive Royal Loft Suites. Suites come with additional amenities, such as priority boarding, concierge service, and access to exclusive lounges and restaurants. 

Regardless of which type of accommodation you choose, all staterooms and suites come with a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Here are some of the amenities you can expect:

  • Comfortable bedding: All staterooms and suites come with comfortable bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep. 
  • Private bathroom: Each stateroom and suite has a private bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. 
  • TV and entertainment: All staterooms and suites come with a TV and a range of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and music. 
  • Storage space: Each stateroom and suite has plenty of storage space for your belongings, including closets, drawers, and shelves. 

Overall, Royal Caribbean offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed accommodations to suit the needs of different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for an affordable interior stateroom or an expansive suite with all the bells and whistles, you’re sure to find an option that meets your needs and budget.

Dining Options

Royal Caribbean offers a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From casual cafes to elegant specialty restaurants, there's something for everyone.

Complimentary Dining

All Royal Caribbean cruise ships serve complimentary dining in the Main Dining Room, Café Promenade, and Windjammer Café or Windjammer Marketplace (the name varies depending on which ship you're sailing on, but the dining experience is the same). These venues offer a range of cuisines, from traditional American fare to international dishes. Basic beverages such as tap water, iced and hot tea, drip coffee, lemonade, and some juices (with breakfast) are included in the price of your cruise.

Specialty Dining

In addition to complimentary dining options, Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of specialty restaurants for an additional fee. These restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience with a focus on specific cuisines such as Italian, steakhouse, or sushi. The cost for specialty dining varies depending on the restaurant and ship, but prices typically range from $15 to $50 per person.

Royal Caribbean offers several dining packages that can help you save money on specialty dining. These packages include the Chops +1, 3-Night, 5-Night, and 10-Night packages. The Unlimited Dining Package is also available, which allows you to dine at specialty restaurants as many times as you like during your cruise for one flat fee.

Room Service

Room service is available 24 hours a day on Royal Caribbean ships. A limited selection of complimentary items is available, including continental breakfast, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Additional items are available for an additional fee.

Beverage Packages

Royal Caribbean offers several beverage packages that allow you to enjoy unlimited beverages for one flat fee. These packages include the Deluxe Beverage Package, Refreshment Package, and Classic Soda Package. The Deluxe Beverage Package includes alcoholic beverages, while the Refreshment Package includes non-alcoholic beverages such as soda, juice, and specialty coffee. The Classic Soda Package includes unlimited fountain soda and refills at any bar or restaurant on the ship.

In conclusion, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you prefer complimentary dining, specialty restaurants, or room service, there's something for everyone. Beverage packages are also available to help you save money on drinks during your cruise.

Onboard Activities

One of the best things about a Royal Caribbean cruise is the sheer number of onboard activities available to guests. From adventure sports to art auctions, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few examples of the activities you can expect to find on a Royal Caribbean cruise:

  • Rock Climbing Wall: Scale a 40-foot rock climbing wall with experienced instructors on hand to help you every step of the way. 
  • Mini Golf: Challenge your friends and family to a round of mini golf on one of the ship's beautifully designed courses. 
  • Ice Skating: Take to the ice on a state-of-the-art rink complete with professional ice shows and open skating sessions. 
  • Escape Room: Work together with your fellow passengers to solve puzzles and clues in a thrilling escape room adventure. 
  • Pools: Splash around in one of the ship's many pools, including the adults-only Solarium pool and the kid-friendly Splashaway Bay. 
  • Art Auctions: Bid on one-of-a-kind pieces of art from around the world in a lively auction setting. 
  • Piano Sing-Alongs: Sing along to your favorite tunes with a live pianist in a fun and interactive setting. 

These are just a few examples of the onboard activities available on Royal Caribbean cruises. Be sure to check your daily program for a full list of activities and events happening on your cruise. And don't forget to take advantage of the ship's fitness center, spa, and casino for even more entertainment options.

Entertainment

One of the biggest draws of Royal Caribbean cruises is the extensive entertainment options available to guests. From Broadway-style shows to live music, comedy acts, and game shows, there's always something to keep you entertained on board.

The cruise line's biggest ships offer multiple entertainment venues, from theaters to comedy clubs, all manner of deck-top attractions, full-service spas, and even ice skating rinks. The entertainment options vary depending on the ship and itinerary, but there's always something for everyone.

Some of the most popular entertainment options include:

  • Broadway-style shows: Royal Caribbean is known for its high-quality productions, with shows like "Cats," "Mamma Mia!," and "Grease" among the lineup.
  • Live music: Whether you're into jazz, rock, or pop, there's always live music playing on board. From solo performers to full bands, there's something to suit every taste.
  • Comedy acts: Get ready to laugh with some of the funniest comedians on the high seas. The comedy shows are often adult-oriented and can be a bit risqué, so be prepared for some cheeky humor.
  • Game shows: From trivia contests to "The Newlywed Game," there are plenty of game shows to keep you entertained. These are often interactive and rely on audience participation, so be prepared to get involved.
  • Deck-top attractions: From zip lines to rock climbing walls, Royal Caribbean's ships are packed with deck-top attractions that are sure to get your heart racing.

Most of the entertainment options are included in the cost of your cruise fare, but some shows and events may require an additional fee. Be sure to check the daily schedule and plan ahead to ensure you don't miss out on any of the fun.

Overall, Royal Caribbean's entertainment offerings are top-notch and are sure to keep you entertained throughout your entire cruise vacation.

Shore Excursions

One of the highlights of any Royal Caribbean cruise is the opportunity to explore new destinations through a variety of shore excursions. These guided tours and activities are designed to showcase the best of each port of call, from cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and everything in between.

Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of shore excursions to suit all interests and activity levels. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach day, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a cultural immersion experience, there's something for everyone. Here are just a few examples of the types of shore excursions you can expect to find on a Royal Caribbean cruise:

  • Adventure Tours: These excursions are perfect for thrill-seekers who want to get their hearts pumping. Activities may include zip-lining, ATV rides, parasailing, and more. 
  • Cultural Tours: If you're interested in learning about the history and culture of your destination, a cultural tour is a great option. You'll visit museums, historic landmarks, and other cultural sites. 
  • Beach Day: Sometimes all you need is a day of sun, sand, and relaxation. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of beach day excursions, including private beach experiences and beach parties. 
  • Nature and Wildlife Tours: For nature lovers, Royal Caribbean offers excursions that allow you to explore the natural beauty of your destination. Activities may include hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. 

Before booking a shore excursion, be sure to read the description carefully to ensure that it's the right fit for you. Some excursions may have age or physical activity restrictions, so it's important to check before booking.

It's also worth noting that while shore excursions are not included in the cost of your cruise, they can be booked in advance or onboard. Booking in advance can help you secure your spot on popular excursions and ensure that you don't miss out on any must-see activities.

Spa and Fitness

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of spa and fitness options for guests to enjoy during their cruise. From relaxing massages to high-intensity workouts, there's something for everyone.

Spa

The Vitality Spa is the perfect place to unwind and pamper yourself. Here are some of the spa services you can enjoy:

  • Massages: Choose from a variety of massage styles, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and more.
  • Facials: Relax and rejuvenate with a facial customized for your skin type.
  • Body treatments: From body wraps to exfoliating scrubs, these treatments will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
  • Salon services: Get your hair styled, a manicure, or a pedicure.

Pricing for spa services varies depending on the treatment and length of time. Guests can book spa appointments ahead of time through the Cruise Planner or at the spa once onboard.

Fitness

Staying active on a cruise is easy with Royal Caribbean's fitness options. Here are some of the fitness amenities available:

  • Fitness center: Each ship has a fully-equipped fitness center with cardio and weight machines, free weights, and more.
  • Group fitness classes: Join a group class, such as yoga, Pilates, or indoor cycling, led by a certified instructor. Some classes may require an additional fee.
  • Sports deck: Play basketball, volleyball, or run on the track on the ship's sports deck.

Guests can access the fitness center and participate in group fitness classes at no additional cost. Personal training sessions are available for an additional fee.

Overall, Royal Caribbean's spa and fitness amenities provide guests with a variety of options to relax and stay active during their cruise vacation.

Kids and Family

Royal Caribbean is a great option for families looking for a fun and exciting vacation. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages, and parents can relax knowing that their children are safe and well taken care of.

Kids Clubs

Royal Caribbean has a range of kids clubs available, catering to children from 6 months to 17 years old. The clubs are split into age groups, with activities and facilities tailored to each group. Some of the clubs available include:

  • Royal Babies and Tots (6-36 months): A playgroup for parents and their little ones, with toys, games, and activities suitable for babies and toddlers.
  • Adventure Ocean (3-11 years): A supervised kids club with a range of activities including arts and crafts, games, sports, and science experiments.
  • Teen Spaces (12-17 years): Dedicated areas for teenagers to hang out, with activities such as video games, music, movies, and sports.

Family Activities

Royal Caribbean has a range of activities that the whole family can enjoy together. Some of these include:

  • Pools and Water Activities: Most Royal Caribbean ships have multiple pools, including kids' pools and splash areas. There are also water slides, wave pools, and other water activities available.
  • Sports and Games: From mini-golf to basketball, Royal Caribbean has a range of sports and games available for families to enjoy together.
  • Shows and Entertainment: Royal Caribbean has a range of family-friendly shows and entertainment options, including Broadway-style productions, ice skating shows, and more.

Family Dining

Royal Caribbean offers a range of dining options suitable for families. Some of the options available include:

  • My Family Time Dining: A program that allows families with young children to have their meals expedited, so they can finish their meal and get to the kids club activities on time.
  • Windjammer Marketplace: A casual buffet-style restaurant with a range of options to suit all tastes.
  • Specialty Dining: Royal Caribbean has a range of specialty restaurants available, including Italian, Japanese, and steakhouse options.

Overall, Royal Caribbean is a great option for families looking for a fun and exciting vacation. With a range of kids clubs, family activities, and dining options available, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Additional Services

While many services are included in your Royal Caribbean cruise ticket price, there are some additional services that incur extra fees. Here are some of the most common extra costs you may encounter:

  • Specialty Dining: While most meals are included in your ticket price, dining at specialty restaurants like Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, and Izumi will incur an additional fee. Prices vary by restaurant and can range from $20 to $50 per person.
  • Beverages: While some beverages are included, like water, tea, and coffee, other drinks like soda, alcohol, and specialty coffees will incur an additional fee. Royal Caribbean offers several beverage packages, which can save you money if you plan on drinking a lot during your cruise.
  • Spa Services: While there are some free spa services available, like the sauna and steam room, most spa treatments like massages and facials will incur an additional fee. Prices vary by treatment and can range from $100 to $200 or more.
  • Shore Excursions: While you can explore ports of call on your own, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of shore excursions that can enhance your experience. Prices vary by excursion and can range from $50 to $200 or more per person.

It's important to note that these extra costs can add up quickly, so it's a good idea to budget accordingly. However, if you're looking to splurge on your vacation, these additional services can provide a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

I just love the Oasis class Royal Caribbean ships.  I just recently sailed on the Harmony Of The Seas, and what a beautiful ship that is.  Don't miss the ice show while onboard!