Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:
Planning for Your Adventure
Please be sure to review the Royal Caribbean Healthy Sail Center webpage, where you can learn important
information about your cruise, including health and safety measures (such as COVID-19 vaccine requirements,
COVID-19 testing, pre-cruise and onboard protocols, etc.). This page is updated directly by Royal Caribbean Cruise
Line so the information here will always be the most up-to-date!
What's Included with My Cruise Purchase?
Onboard stateroom accommodations (your cabin), ocean transportation (your cruise), water/coffee/tea/lemonade,
most entertainment and recreation onboard, most meals, and Royal Caribbean’s commitment to guest satisfaction!
What’s Not Included?
Travel insurance, specialty dining, spa services, gambling, art auctions, merchandise purchases, shore excursions,
photographs, arcade, internet access, medical services, transportation to and from the port, port parking, laundry
services, ship to shore phone calls, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and specialty beverages. Some activities on Royal
Caribbean’s private islands are extra. Ask a staff member if you’re ever unsure!
Final Payment
Be sure to mark a calendar with your Final Payment Date which can be found on your reservation invoice this date
comes 90, 75 or 60 days before sailing date depending on the length of your cruise. This is the deadline date for
paying off the remaining balance on your cruise. This is the deadline date for paying off the remaining balance on
your cruise and you will then be confirmed as an official passenger on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines!
Royal Caribbean’s My Cruises Online Account
You will want to create a My Cruises account online as soon as possible. You will use this account to access the cruise
planner to make plans for your cruise. Once your cruise reservation is confirmed with deposit you can begin
exploring shore excursions for each port and entertainment options on the ship. You can begin making reservations
for all of those awesome activities you discovered as early as 6 months in advance of sailing, though sometimes the
full list of options may not be available until 120 days out. Oasis and Quantum class ships can even pre-book shows
which is strongly recommended!!!
To set up your online account and link your reservation, go to:
Royal Caribbean Create an Account
Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner Video
What is “Online Check-In” and What are “e-Docs?”
Online check-in” is a pre-cruise procedure in which you’ll complete necessary cruise paperwork online: you’ll print a
boarding pass (called “e-docs,”), luggage tags, and a SetSail signature page (for your room key) to save lots of time
when boarding the ship. It’s all done in your My Cruises account after final payment. Online check-in opens 90
days before sailing and must be completed no later than 3 days prior to sailing and if you prefer to use the Royal
Caribbean mobile app you can access your SetSail pass electronically too.
Vacation Protection Insurance
It’s not just cancellation insurance. Today’s plans include insurance for your whole trip: Personal Property, Baggage,
Medical, Emergency Evacuation, and additionally 24-hour Travel Assistance. Of course, it still includes the “Cancel
for Any Reason feature which is very popular. Most insurance policies do not include coverage while traveling
outside of the US, so Insurance is always recommended. It’s a great way to protect your investment and provides
peace of mind at a low cost! You can add the plan any time before Final Payment. we also offer insurance through a
preferred third-party vendor that might be more affordable or offer benefits that you might prefer, to request a
quote comparison, please email your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent.
When Should I Plan to Arrive?
Arrive at the port the day before embarkation day (the day your ship leaves the home port). Explore the port area
(it’s a destination too!) or relax without the stress of delayed or cancelled flights and sudden traffic incidents (trust
me!). Your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent can easily arrange airfare and a pre/post-cruise hotel through the
cruise line at competitive rates! Please be sure to read the Royal Caribbean Cruise Boarding Policy for more
information.
Proof of Citizenship/Passports
Passports are highly recommended for cruises but not required on every sailing. Please check the Vital Information
section of your reservation for information and links to websites that can provide more details. It is each cruise
passenger’s responsibility to make sure they have the proper identification documents needed to board. If your
cruise does require a passport, please ensure that the name on the photo page matches the name on your cruise
reservation and is valid for 6 months after travel.
If your cruise does not require a Passport, you will be required to provide proof of citizenship in the form of an
original/certified copy of a government issued birth certificate (with raised seal and signature), and a laminated
government-issued photo ID (driver's license) for each passenger age 16+ that matches the name on the cruise
reservation. If the name on your ID does not match the name on your Birth Certificate and/or Driver’s License, you
may be asked to present a supporting document (i.e. a Marriage License, which shows your maiden and married
name). It’s heartbreaking to see someone left behind in the terminal, denied boarding for not having the right ID.
Visit Royal Caribbean Travel Documentation to ensure that you take the necessary ID, especially passengers who
are not natural-born US citizens or carry a birth certificate from Puerto Rico.
Children traveling without both birth parents or children with a different last name than their parent may be
required to show additional notarized consent.
Be advised: though Passports are not required in order to board many sailings, they are strongly recommended
and would be required in the event you must return to the United States by air.
Visas
Some countries require that any American passenger departing the ship obtain a Travel Visa and/or be booked on a
cruise line shore excursion (Russia, Australia, China, India, and Cuba for example) in order to exit the ship.
Visa requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens are listed on your Booking Confirmation under "Notices," if
applicable. You’ll want to check if an Visa Application Kit is needed for your sailing. All other nationalities, including
those with U.S. or Canadian resident status, should contact me ASAP for info in obtaining the appropriate
documents.
STEP/Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
International cruise passengers are strongly encouraged to register each trip with the US Dept. of Consular Affairs
Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP). By signing up you’ll be notified of new travel advisories and pertinent
tourist information. Plus, registering for this free service by the US Dept. of State also enables them to better assist
you during an emergency.
Dining Onboard
Daytime: The Windjammer Café is a complimentary buffet open during meal times. The Main Dining Room is open
for a table-service breakfast, lunch, and multi-course dinner. Room service is available 24/7 (for a small fee).
Evening (must choose 1 at the time of booking and options are early, late or My Time):
Set Dining Times: Generally the Early Seating is near 6pm and the Late Seating is near 8pm, though they
vary by ship/itinerary. Guests will keep the same wait staff and dining companions throughout the cruise
when booked with a set dining time.
My Time Dining: For more flexibility, this option is great for guests who prefer to arrive at any time they’d
like and receive the next available table and server each evening. Just be sure to check your activity guide
for open times. You can also pre-reserve specific days and times online in your My Cruises account. If you
prefer not to wait, it is recommended to make reservations for My Time dining prior to sailing. These
reservations can be modified onboard if needed.
If you are unsure of the dining option that you selected, please contact your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel
Agent so that they can confirm your preference. You have the option to also reserve a table for 2 to up to 8
guests.
Signature Dining: Each ship offers a variety of optional dining experiences for an additional fee (Chops Grille and
Giovanni’s Table for example). You’ll want to begin making reservations for these restaurants as soon as your Final
Payment has been processed. Try at least one they really do make your cruise experience extra special!
Need a specific date/time for your special dining experience? Be sure to reserve in your My Cruises profile 90-60
days prior to sailing.
What Do I Wear?
Daytime: Casual/resort wear is the norm during daytime hours. Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts,
blouses and sundresses are all perfect whether indoors or out. For lounging by the pool, pack bathing suits, cover-
ups, and a pair of sandals. Don’t forget work-out clothes if you plan to use the fitness center, and long pants and
socks if you’re sailing on a ship with ice skating onboard.
Evening: Cruises from 3-5 nights will have 1 Smart Casual and 1 Formal night, and cruises 6 nights+ have at least 1
Smart Casual and 2 Formal nights. Smart Casual: Jackets and ties for men, dresses or pantsuits for women. Formal:
cocktail dresses for women, suits and ties (or tuxedos) for men. A sweater or two is essential for chilly dining rooms.
Shorts, T-shirts, and bathing suits are considered too casual in the dining rooms at dinner. More information can be
found at Formal Dress Code
Visit What to Pack for more details and notes for onshore attire.
Don’t Miss the Shows!!!!
On Royal Caribbean’s newest, state of the art cruise ships like those in the Oasis Class you’ll absolutely want to mark
your calendar and reserve show seats as soon as they’re open for booking. Why? Royal Caribbean’s entertainers are
some of the most talented in the world, so their shows constantly book up. True, you may find a seat or two
available if you arrive no less than 30 minutes before showtime, but that is a big risk. If you absolutely can’t find
availability before sailing, be sure to grab a reservation as soon as you get on board since some seats aren’t released
until then.
Pre-booking shows 75-60 days prior to sailing is strongly recommended on Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships.
Port Excursions
There are SO many options at each port and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure!
---Visit RoyalCaribbean.com to search Shore Excursions, where you can browse by ship and sail date.
---Consider checking with your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent for a list of trusted third-party excursion
vendors. These excursion companies are known for offering additional shore excursion possibilities, competitive
rates, and a timely return to your ship.
Some favorites: cultural bus tours, snorkeling, hands-on experiences, and activities unique to a destination. Just
about every port has their own version of ziplining, Segway tours, dolphin swims, and ATV excursions, so instead
keep an eye out for unique geographical and historical sites (like Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, The Baths in Tortola,
Mayan ruins in Mexico, St. Kitts Scenic Railway, etc.)
Dreaming of an all-inclusive beach day? Spending the afternoon at a beach-front resort? This is your chance! Ask me
for Resort Day Pass options in the ports you’ll visit on this cruise and start dreaming of the fruity cocktail you’ll try
first!
You’ll want to reserve shore excursions in My Cruises as early as 6 months in advance of sailing. Please note that the
complete list may not be available until 120 days before sailing.
Embarkation Day (Cruise Day 1)
Check-in time and ship departure (embarkation) time varies by home port and ship, but for most sailings Royal
Caribbean’s check-in counters (in the cruise terminal building) open at 10:30am. Select a time as early as you can
(early on the ship means more time to explore and relax!) and arrive no later than 2 hours before the scheduled
embarkation time printed on your e-docs. Don’t forget to complete the Online Check-In process at least 3 days
before Embarkation Day!
Muster 2.0
To ensure your health and safety onboard, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has officially launched an entirely new
approach to delivering safety information to guests. This innovative program reimagines a process originally
designed to address large groups of people into a faster, more personal approach that encourages higher levels of
safety. With this enhanced experience, the essential safety information will be offered to guests through new
“eMuster
TM
” technology via your mobile devices, as well as on the interactive stateroom TVs. This new approach
offers you the flexibility to complete this very important process at your leisure prior to setting sail, allowing you to
jump right into your vacation uninterrupted.
Once onboard, each guest will be required to visit their assigned assembly station where a crew member will verify
the completion of the safety requirements and will be available to answer any questions. All steps must be
completed prior to the ship’s departure, as required by international maritime law.
Be sure to review the online information for Muster 2.0 for instructions on how to access via your mobile app or
interactive stateroom TVs before departure.
Children’s Clubs
Royal Caribbean’s complimentary youth programs, “Adventure Ocean, provide entertainment for all kids 3-17 years
divided into age-appropriate programming (Kids 3-11 and Teens 12-17). If your children fall within these age ranges,
don’t be surprised if they insist on spending LOTS of time in the Clubs. Most ships also have a “Royal Babies & Tots
Nursery” (age 6-36 months) for daytime and evening drop-off at an hourly rate. Make sure to pre-register your
children during the Online check-in process.
Stateroom Door Decorations
Decorating your stateroom door makes for a fun and memorable homecoming each night. Bring magnets, images
printed on magnetic paper, or window cling to easily recognize your stateroom door. Other ideas include
anniversary photos, wrapping paper, balloons, Veteran magnets, and more. Check Pinterest for ideas!
Health Concerns and Guests with Special Needs or Diets
Royal Caribbean ships provide quality service and a variety of accessible features to make your experience as
relaxing and enjoyable as can be. Royal Caribbean meets sanitization standards as required by law. Frequent hand
washing is strongly encouraged onboard for all passengers. Each ship is equipped with an Infirmary and Ship Doctor,
available for an additional fee. ***Important: Please inform your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent of any new
or existing pregnancy, routine dialysis, special needs, special dietary restrictions, or medical concerns so we can
inform the appropriate department.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring?
Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel;
however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Keep
in mind that airline luggage policies may differ from cruise line luggage policies. Some items are permitted only in
carry-on luggage (a CPAP machine, for example). Pack that carry-on wisely!
What not to bring: Prohibited Items Policy
Royal Caribbean Luggage Valet options for 7-night sailings or longer at select ports
Automatic Gratuities
As with most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean automatically adds the standard gratuities to each guest’s onboard
account while sailing. These “tips” are divided among your Dining Room Server, Dining Room Assistant Server, and
Dining Room Head Server as well as your Stateroom Host/Hostess. It is recommended to add prepaid gratuities
during Final Payment because it’s one less thing to budget for on the ship let your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel
Agent know if you’d like to pay in advance.
Am I Allowed to Bring Alcohol Onboard?
Guests can bring wine and champagne onto the ship on boarding day only: two (2) 750 ml bottles per stateroom in
their carry-on luggage. Beer, hard liquor, and fortified wines are not allowed to be brought onboard. Any beverages
bought in duty-free shops on the ship or in port will be stored by the ship until the final day of the cruise.
Debarkation Day (Final Cruise Day)
Ships generally arrive back at their home port early in the morning, around 7am. The Captain will make an
announcement soon after that for passengers to begin disembarkation. Believe It or not ships are mostly empty by
9am so staff can clean and prep the ship for the next sailing!
Onboard Booking (save $$!): NextCruise Incentives
You’ll have the chance to save $$$ on a future cruise OR earn onboard credit by making a reservation while still
onboard. You don’t have to select a specific date for that next cruise, either! The incentives are usually pretty great,
and, if you have booked your cruise thru a Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent, we hope that you will choose to
list your Travel Agent on the reservation when talking with the sales staff!
A few miscellaneous notes
o All staterooms provide soap, 2-in-1 shampoo, and a hairdryer. Pack hair conditioner and lotion, if desired.
o A clothing iron can be requested. Laundry service is available for a fee.
o Most ships have a mini-safe in all rooms. All vessels have safety deposit boxes onboard.
o Royal Caribbean takes pride in their high-speed Wi-Fi at sea. Consider adding a Wi-Fi package to your
reservation if you must stay connected while away (or consider turning your device off all-together!).
o Be sure to download the Royal Caribbean app before your cruise! You can use the app to view the daily
schedule, make reservations onboard, and so much more.
o All purchases made onboard are charged to your Onboard (SetSail) Account by scanning your room key card.
o Dining and beverage packages can be a great value. Your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent can help you
decide if you’re unsure.
o Royal Caribbean often runs specials and discounts in the cruise planner for various extras. Please check your
cruise planner often to make sure you don’t miss a discount.
Still have questions?
Royal Caribbean Frequently Asked Questions. And, your Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel Agent is just a phone call
or email away.