If you’re thinking about cruising and want the perfect blend of adventure, entertainment, and comfort, Royal Caribbean should be at the top of your list. Known for its innovative ships and wide range of itineraries, Royal offers something for every traveler—whether you’re bringing toddlers, teens, or just looking to unwind with a frozen drink and ocean view.

Whether this is your first cruise or you’re simply new to Royal Caribbean, here’s what you need to know before you sail.

Chat with a PMT agent about your next cruise!

*sourced from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line*

🌊 Why Sail with Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean is famous for pushing the boundaries of what a cruise can be. While other lines might focus on tradition or simplicity, Royal Caribbean brings bold experiences to the sea—think zip lines, robot bartenders, ice skating, and Broadway-caliber shows, all on board your ship.

But that doesn’t mean the whole trip is go-go-go. Each ship also offers peaceful solariums, spa retreats, adult-only lounges, and plenty of spots to simply relax and recharge. Royal Caribbean has perfected the balance between activity and downtime, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, and multi-generational groups.

🚢 Choosing the Right Ship

With more than two dozen ships across various classes, Royal Caribbean truly has something for everyone—but not all ships are created equal. The larger ships (like the Oasis and Icon class) are floating cities with jaw-dropping amenities, while the smaller classes (like Radiance or Vision) provide a quieter, more traditional cruise feel.

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Icon Class (newest) – Think: water park, multi-deck neighborhoods, next-level family suites, and record-breaking attractions.
Oasis Class – Packed with seven distinct “neighborhoods,” including Central Park and the Boardwalk. Ideal for families and first-timers.
Quantum Class – Modern ships with unique features like North Star (a glass capsule that lifts you above the ship) and Two70 entertainment lounges.
Freedom, Voyager, Radiance, and Vision Classes – Smaller, more classic ships with fewer crowds, often sailing to unique destinations.

Not sure which is right for you? That’s where we come in—we’ll match you to the ship that fits your vacation vibe and budget.

🏝️ Where Can You Sail?

Royal Caribbean sails nearly everywhere. Some of the most popular destinations include:

The Caribbean & Bahamas – Most itineraries include a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Alaska – Glacier views, wildlife sightings, and immersive excursions in the Last Frontier.
Europe – Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and Northern Europe cruises offer a mix of history, food, and scenery.
Asia, South Pacific & Australia – More adventurous options with unique ports of call.
Panama Canal, Bermuda, and transatlantic crossings – For seasoned cruisers looking to try something different.

If your dream destination is near water, Royal Caribbean likely sails there.

💡 What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare?

Your cruise fare includes much more than just a place to sleep. Royal Caribbean delivers a lot of value up front, especially compared to land-based vacations.

What’s included:

Stateroom accommodations
Meals in the main dining room, Windjammer buffet, and select quick-service spots
Entertainment, including musicals, live music, and comedy shows
Pools, hot tubs, sports courts, and fitness center
Daily activities and kids/teen programming

Additional costs may include:

Alcoholic drinks and soda (drink packages available)
Specialty dining restaurants
Shore excursions
Wi-Fi packages
Gratuities (which can be pre-paid or added onboard)

We’ll help you decide which extras make sense for your travel style and budget.

🍴 Dining & Entertainment Onboard

One of the best parts of cruising? The food! Every Royal Caribbean ship has a main dining room with rotating menus and a huge buffet at Windjammer Café. Casual eats like pizza from Sorrento’s or sandwiches at Café Promenade are perfect for grab-and-go options.

Want to elevate your dining experience? Royal’s specialty restaurants offer just that. You might consider:

Chops Grille – Classic steakhouse with rich sides and great wine pairings.
Izumi – Fresh sushi and hibachi-style cooking.
150 Central Park – Upscale dining with a seasonal menu.
Jamie’s Italian – Rustic Italian favorites by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

When it comes to entertainment, Royal Caribbean is a leader in the cruise world. Shows include Broadway hits (Mamma Mia!, Hairspray), jaw-dropping aqua theater performances, and multimedia shows with aerialists and robotics. And don’t miss trivia nights, game shows, karaoke, or live bands across the ship.

🌴 Perfect Day at CocoCay

One of the biggest perks of sailing with Royal Caribbean is their private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. This island offers a mix of high-energy adventure and peaceful beach relaxation, so you can customize the experience to your mood.

Top attractions include:

Thrill Waterpark with record-breaking slides and a giant wave pool
Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean
Up, Up & Away, a helium balloon ride offering 450-foot views
Chill Island, perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling
Coco Beach Club, a luxury area with overwater cabanas (available for an extra fee)

Many itineraries in the Caribbean and Bahamas include a full day at CocoCay—and trust us, it’s a highlight of the trip.

📲 Planning Tips & What to Expect

Before your cruise, download the Royal Caribbean app. It allows you to check in, schedule shows, book dining and excursions, and view your daily itinerary while on board. It’s your best friend during the trip.

As for packing: bring casual clothes for daytime, swimwear, flip-flops, and something a little dressier for “Dress Your Best” nights. You’ll also want a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a small day bag for shore excursions. Power strips (without surge protectors) and magnetic hooks for stateroom walls are handy extras we always recommend.

Also, be sure to review your travel documents. Most sailings require a passport, but some closed-loop Caribbean itineraries may allow a birth certificate and photo ID. We’ll walk you through exactly what you need for your specific sailing.

⚓ Let’s Plan Your Perfect Cruise

Royal Caribbean has truly redefined what a cruise vacation can be—and we’d love to help you experience it. At People Mover Travel, we’ll guide you through the entire process: from choosing the right ship and itinerary to booking excursions, dining, and beyond.

We make cruising easy, personalized, and fun—so all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready to set sail.

Free Royal Caribbean Cruise Quote Here!

Everything You Need to Know Before Sailing with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line