Cruising with Royal Caribbean can be an exhilarating experience, but it’s not without its criticisms. While many enthusiasts rave about the line’s innovative ships and diverse activities, others have reservations that might deter them from booking. This article will explore five common concerns about cruising with Royal Caribbean and discuss why these issues shouldn’t necessarily stop you from enjoying a cruise with this popular line.
1. The Size of the Ships
One of the most frequent concerns about Royal Caribbean is the size of their ships. With some vessels accommodating up to 7,000 passengers, it’s easy to envision crowded decks and long lines. However, there are important factors to consider regarding the ship’s capacity and design.
- Large ships offer more amenities
- Innovative neighborhood design
- More activities spread throughout the ship
- Variety keeps crowds manageable
Royal Caribbean’s larger ships, such as the Oasis class, are designed with neighborhoods that help distribute passengers across various areas. This ensures that while the ship may have a high capacity, it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly crowded. On a busy day, you may find yourself enjoying a show or lounging by the pool without feeling cramped.
Even if you prefer a smaller vessel, Royal Caribbean has options within their fleet. Ships in the Vision, Radiance, and Voyager classes provide a more intimate experience while still offering many of the same activities and amenities found on larger ships.
2. Additional Costs Can Add Up
While initial cruise prices may seem attractive, many first-time cruisers are often surprised by the additional costs associated with a Royal Caribbean cruise. From drink packages to shore excursions and Wi-Fi, these extras can significantly increase the overall cost of your vacation.
- Drink packages
- Spa treatments
- Shore excursions
- Gratuities and port fees
However, this modular pricing structure allows guests to customize their experience. If you’re not interested in certain extras, you can choose to forgo them. This flexibility means you can plan your cruise according to your budget. Additionally, many of these extras can be pre-purchased at a discount before your cruise, helping you save money.
3. Difficulty in Securing Show Tickets
Entertainment is one of Royal Caribbean’s standout features, with Broadway-style shows and unique performances. However, securing tickets for these shows can be a challenge. With limited availability and the option to book tickets in advance, many guests find that popular shows fill up quickly.
- Free tickets available
- Standby lines can be an option
- Plan ahead to secure seats
- Many no-shows occur
While it can be frustrating, many guests find success using standby lines, as there are often no-shows for reserved tickets. Arriving early can increase your chances of enjoying these fantastic performances, so it’s worth considering this strategy if you miss out on reservations.
4. Inflexible Change and Cancellation Policies
Another common complaint is the strict penalties associated with changing or canceling a cruise. Royal Caribbean offers both refundable and non-refundable cruise fares, but many guests opt for the cheaper non-refundable option, which can lead to fees if plans change.
- Non-refundable fares are cheaper
- Change fees can be significant
- Booking in advance offers better prices
- Refundable fares provide peace of mind
While it’s essential to be aware of these policies, booking well in advance typically allows for better pricing, which can offset the risk of change fees. If flexibility is a high priority for you, consider booking refundable fares to avoid penalties.
5. Family-Focused Atmosphere
Royal Caribbean is well-known for being a family-friendly cruise line, which can be a turn-off for travelers seeking a more adult-focused experience. While there are child-free areas on the ships, such as the solarium, the general atmosphere leans towards family activities.
- Family activities abound
- Longer sailings have fewer kids
- Avoid peak school vacation times
- Adult-only areas available
If you prefer a quieter environment, consider booking longer sailings or traveling during off-peak times. This can help reduce the number of families on board, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Conclusion: Should You Book with Royal Caribbean?
While there are valid concerns regarding cruising with Royal Caribbean, none of these issues should be deal-breakers. Understanding the larger context of cruising can help you make an informed decision. Royal Caribbean continues to innovate and lead the industry, offering a wide array of choices that cater to diverse preferences.
In summary, if you can navigate the potential challenges, you may find that the benefits of cruising with Royal Caribbean far outweigh the negatives. Whether you’re drawn in by the vast array of activities, exceptional entertainment, or the excitement of a large ship, there’s a lot to love about Royal Caribbean. So, don’t let these common concerns hold you back from booking your next cruise adventure!