About this Video

• Video Title: 47 Easy Tricks to Make Your Cruise So Much Better
• Channel: Royal Caribbean Blog
• Speakers: Matt
• Duration: 00:16:17

Introduction

This video provides 47 easy tips to enhance a Royal Caribbean cruise experience. The tips cover various aspects, from booking and embarkation to onboard activities and maximizing enjoyment throughout the cruise. The presenter aims to alleviate stress and improve the overall cruise vacation.

Key Takeaways

1. Pre-plan and book in advance: Utilize online check-in, pre-book dining reservations, excursions, and gratuities to save time and money.
2. Maximize onboard experiences: Take advantage of complimentary amenities like trivia, room service (for suites), and complimentary ferries at Labadee.
3. Smart packing and cabin hacks: Bring essentials like bathing suits for early pool access, a USB port outlet, magnetic hooks, wrinkle release spray, and a pen/highlighter. Prepare a carry-on bag for the first day.
4. Communication and problem-solving: Establish a communication plan with travel companions, and speak up if there are any issues to ensure timely resolutions.
5. Cost-saving strategies: Look for deals and promotions, including kids sail free, and bring your own water (within permitted limits). Use a good travel agent to find the best deals.

Here's a summarized list of the 47 takeaways from the video, grouped for better readability:

Booking & Pre-Trip Planning:

1. Specialty Restaurants for Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a specialty restaurant to avoid embarkation day crowds. Consider pre-booking.
2. Use a Good Travel Agent: A good travel agent can save you money and assist with problems.
3. Read a Past Cruise Compass: Get a preview of onboard activities and entertainment. RoyalCaribbeanBlog.com has archives.
4. Book in Advance: Pre-book anything you can through the cruise planner to save money and time.
5. Look for Deals: Regularly check the cruise planner for deals, even if there's no sale advertised.
6. Online Check-in: Complete online check-in to expedite the process at the terminal.
7. Pre-book Gratuities: Lock in the gratuity rate to avoid potential increases.
8. Print Luggage Tags: Print luggage tags beforehand to save time at the terminal.
9. Fly In One Day Early: Avoid missing your cruise due to travel delays.
10. Prepare Carry-on Bag: Pack a carry-on bag with essentials for the first day.
11. Don't Wait for the Elevator: Use the stairs to save time and burn some calories.

Onboard Experience & Activities:

1. Wear Matching T-shirts: Easily spot your group amidst the crowds.
2. Trivia on Sea Days: Participate in free trivia sessions to meet people and have fun.
3. Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan (group chat, etc.) for your group.
4. Eat Dinner Together: Schedule a common dinner time to reconnect and make plans.
5. Avoid Over-Planning: Leave time for individual activities and prevent scheduling conflicts.
6. Talk to Crew Members: Engage in conversations with crew members for a more enriching experience.
7. Pre-book My Time Dining: Make My Time Dining reservations in advance for priority seating.
8. Don't Waste Time at Guest Services: Visit during off-peak hours (early morning, dinner, late night, or when docked).
9. Complimentary Ferry at Labadee: Utilize the free ferry service to explore different beaches.
10. Register for Adventure Ocean: Register kids for Adventure Ocean on embarkation day.
11. Sign Up for Vitality Spa Raffle: Participate in the raffle for a chance to win.
12. Look for Alternatives to Buffet Lines: Explore less crowded dining options like Park Cafe, Cafe 270, etc.

Cabin & Personal Items:

1. Bring a USB Port Outlet: Add more charging space.
2. Bathing Suits on Embarkation Day: Access pools and water slides early while they are less crowded.
3. Put Phone in Airplane Mode: Avoid roaming charges while using the ship's Wi-Fi.
4. Bring Pen and Highlighter: Useful for writing notes and highlighting activities.
5. Buy Magnetic Hooks: Hang items in your stateroom easily.
6. Bring Wrinkle Release Spray: Freshen up clothes easily.
7. Eat Green Apples: Remedy seasickness.
8. Bring Your Own Water: Bring non-alcoholic beverages (within limits) on embarkation day.
9. Breakfast Room Service as Wake-up Call: Use complimentary room service as a wake-up call.
10. Suitcases Fit Under the Bed: Maximize space in your cabin.
11. Wear Tightest Clothes First: Wear tighter clothing earlier in the cruise.

Drinks & Food:

1. Specify Liquor Brand: Request a specific brand of liquor for your cocktails.
2. Drink Package at Specialty Restaurants: Use your drink package at specialty restaurants.
3. Bottle of Water with Drink Order: Always ask for a bottle of water with your drinks.
4. Room Service is Complimentary (Suites): Take advantage of free room service in suites.

Other Advice:

1. Speak Up if There's a Problem: Address issues promptly with crew members.
2. Know What You Can't Bring: Check Royal Caribbean's list of prohibited items.
3. Don't Listen to Bad Reviews: Maintain an open mind and enjoy your cruise.
4. Look for Videos of Your Ship/Itinerary/Room: Use YouTube to learn more about your cruise.