Are you planning on embarking on a luxurious Royal Caribbean cruise? As you bask in the excitement of your upcoming adventure, it’s essential to be aware of any additional costs that might arise during your voyage. From specialty dining experiences to spa treatments, and even shore excursions, this article will unveil the potential extras you may encounter on your Royal Caribbean cruise, ensuring you are fully prepared for an unforgettable and stress-free vacation.
Dining Options
When it comes to dining on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you have a wide range of options to choose from. The specialty restaurants are a great choice for those looking for a unique and elevated dining experience. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from Italian to Asian fusion, and provide a more intimate setting for a special meal. The menu options are often more extensive and the service is top-notch.
If you prefer to dine in the comfort of your own stateroom, room service is available, but it does come with an additional fee. While there are usually some complimentary options available, such as continental breakfast, there are also options for a more substantial meal with a fee attached. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy a quiet meal in their room or who may have specific dietary requirements.
Another aspect to consider when it comes to dining is the bar charges. While water, coffee, tea, and select juices are typically included in your cruise fare, alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks do come with a cost. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cocktail by the pool or a glass of wine with dinner, these charges will be added to your onboard account. It’s important to keep track of your bar charges to avoid any surprises at the end of your cruise.
Beverage Packages
To help manage the cost of your beverages onboard, Royal Caribbean offers beverage packages. If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, there are packages available that offer unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails for a set price per day. These packages can be a great value if you plan on indulging in alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, there are also beverage packages available that include unlimited sodas, specialty coffees, and bottled water. These packages are a great option for families or individuals who prefer not to drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a variety of beverages throughout their cruise.
Gratuities
Gratuities are an important aspect to consider when budgeting for your Royal Caribbean cruise. These gratuities go towards recognizing the hard work and excellent service provided by the onboard staff. It’s important to note that gratuities are not included in your cruise fare and will be added to your onboard account at a set daily rate.
Staff gratuities are applied to your stateroom attendant, dining room staff, and certain other crew members who work behind the scenes to ensure your cruise experience is seamless. The set daily rate per person can vary depending on the stateroom category you choose. It’s important to budget for these gratuities to ensure that you can properly recognize the excellent service provided by the staff during your cruise.
In addition to staff gratuities, there may also be a gratuity added to any spa or salon services you choose to indulge in during your cruise. It’s important to check the pricing and gratuity information for these services, as the gratuity may not be included in the initial price.
Onboard Activities
Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of onboard activities to keep you entertained throughout your cruise. From shore excursions to spa treatments, fitness classes to casino games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Shore excursions allow you to explore the ports of call in more depth. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, zip-lining, or exploring historical sites, there are a variety of excursions available to suit your interests. These excursions typically come with an additional cost, so it’s important to budget accordingly if you plan on participating in any of these activities.
If relaxation is more your style, the spa treatments offered onboard can provide the perfect escape. From massages to facials, the spa offers a range of services to help you unwind and rejuvenate. It’s important to note that these treatments come with an additional fee, and it’s advisable to book your appointments in advance to ensure availability.
For those looking to stay active onboard, fitness classes are a great option. Whether you’re interested in yoga, Pilates, or spinning, there’s a class to suit your fitness preferences. These classes also come with an additional fee, so it’s important to budget accordingly if you plan on participating in any fitness activities during your cruise.
If you’re feeling lucky, the onboard casino offers a range of games to test your skills. Whether you prefer slot machines or table games, there’s something for every level of gambler. It’s important to note that any wagers made in the casino will be charged to your onboard account.
Entertainment
Royal Caribbean is known for its top-notch entertainment options. From Broadway shows to ice skating shows, comedy shows to arcade games, there’s something for everyone.
The Broadway shows onboard are a highlight for many guests. These shows feature talented performers and showcase popular musicals such as Mamma Mia! and Cats. It’s important to note that while these shows are included in your cruise fare, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance to secure your seat.
If you’re looking for a unique entertainment experience, the ice skating shows are not to be missed. These shows feature professional ice skaters performing intricate routines on a specially designed rink. Again, while these shows are included in your cruise fare, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance to secure your seat.
For those who enjoy laughter, the comedy shows onboard offer a chance to sit back and enjoy some stand-up comedy. These shows are typically included in your cruise fare and provide a great option for an evening of entertainment.
For those looking to test their gaming skills, the arcade onboard offers a variety of games to enjoy. From classic arcade games to modern favorites, there’s something for every gamer. It’s important to note that any games played in the arcade will be charged to your onboard account.
Internet and Phone Charges
Staying connected while onboard is important to many guests, and Royal Caribbean offers a range of options to help meet your internet and phone needs.
Wi-Fi packages are available for purchase, allowing you to stay connected throughout your cruise. These packages offer varying levels of access and speed, depending on your needs. It’s important to note that Wi-Fi charges are not included in your cruise fare and will be added to your onboard account.
If you prefer to use the onboard internet café, there may be additional charges associated with usage. It’s important to check the pricing and packages available to ensure you can stay connected without breaking the bank.
For those who need to make international calls while onboard, there may be additional charges associated with this service. It’s important to check the pricing and options available to ensure you can stay in touch with loved ones back home without incurring any unexpected charges.
Retail and Souvenirs
When it comes to shopping onboard, Royal Caribbean offers a range of options to suit every taste. From duty-free shopping to onboard gift shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The duty-free shops offer a wide selection of products, from jewelry and watches to luxury goods and cosmetics. These shops provide a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs and gifts at a discounted price. It’s important to note that duty-free products are available for purchase by guests aged 21 and over and certain limitations may apply depending on your port of call.
In addition to the duty-free shops, there are also onboard gift shops where you can find a range of Royal Caribbean-branded merchandise and souvenirs. From t-shirts and hats to keychains and magnets, there’s something to suit every budget and taste.
Special Events and Celebrations
If you’re celebrating a special occasion while onboard, Royal Caribbean offers a range of options to make your experience even more memorable. Whether you’re celebrating a wedding, anniversary, or birthday, there are packages and services available to help create the perfect celebration.
For those looking to tie the knot, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of wedding packages to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic ceremony onboard or a picturesque beach wedding at a port of call, the dedicated wedding planners will work with you to create a truly unforgettable experience.
If you’re celebrating an anniversary, there are also special packages available to help you celebrate in style. From romantic dinners to couples’ massages, these packages provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time together and create lasting memories.
Birthdays onboard are also a cause for celebration. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or simply want to make the day extra special, there are packages available that include balloons, decorations, and a birthday cake to help you celebrate in style.
Photography Services
To help capture the memories of your cruise, Royal Caribbean offers a range of photography services. Whether you’re looking for professional portraits or looking to document a special event, the onboard photographers are there to help.
Professional portraits are a great way to capture the beauty of your vacation and create lasting memories. From formal portraits to candid shots, the onboard photographers will work with you to create the perfect photo. It’s important to note that these portraits come with an additional fee, and it’s advisable to book your session in advance to ensure availability.
In addition to professional portraits, the onboard photographers also capture photos during special events and activities. Whether you’re attending a themed party or participating in a game show, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase these event photos as a memento of your cruise.
Spa and Fitness Services
For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, Royal Caribbean offers a range of spa and fitness services. From massages to fitness classes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Massages are a popular choice for those looking to unwind and de-stress. Whether you prefer a Swedish massage or a hot stone massage, the onboard spa offers a variety of options to suit your needs. It’s important to note that these massages come with an additional fee, and it’s advisable to book your appointment in advance to ensure availability.
If staying active is more your style, the fitness classes onboard offer a great opportunity to get moving. Whether you’re interested in yoga, Zumba, or cardio workouts, there’s a class to suit your fitness level and preferences. These classes also come with an additional fee, so it’s important to budget accordingly if you plan on participating in any fitness activities during your cruise.
In conclusion, while many aspects of your Royal Caribbean cruise are included in your fare, there are additional expenses to consider. From dining options to onboard activities, internet and phone charges to special events, it’s important to budget accordingly and plan for these extra costs. By being aware of what costs extra, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience without any surprises at the end.
