New to Cruising? Your First-Timer’s Guide to Royal Caribbean
📅 Published by Here for the Badge | Cruise Culture Blog
There’s nothing like the excitement of your first cruise—especially with Royal Caribbean. From planning your trip to boarding day and exploring every deck, it can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. But don’t worry, Badge Fam has your back.
As a family of badge-chasing, cruise-obsessed veterans (with more than a dozen Royal ships under our belt), we’ve gathered all the tips and tricks you need to make your first voyage smooth, stylish, and full of unforgettable moments. This is the ultimate first-time cruiser guide—no fluff, just everything you actually want to know.
✈️ Pre-Boarding Tips: Book It Right
Pick Your Ship Wisely: Not all ships are the same! If you want water slides, zip lines, and shows, go for the bigger ships like Wonder, Oasis, or Icon of the Seas. Want a more relaxed vibe? Try Enchantment or Radiance.
Watch for Sales: Royal Caribbean runs deals year-round. Look for Kids Sail Free, BOGO60, or onboard credit promos.
Download the Royal Caribbean App: It’s your cruise companion—check in, plan your schedule, see menus, and track your badges (if you're in the new digital program!).
Join a Roll Call: Check Cruise Critic or Facebook for your sailing’s group. You’ll meet others, get insider tips, and maybe even join group excursions or themed events.
Check Passport Requirements: Not all cruises require a passport—but it’s better to have one just in case. Don’t get left behind.
Pack a few Here for the Badge Tees
🧳 What to Pack (and What to Skip)
Essentials: Passport or ID, cruise documents, sunscreen, motion sickness remedies, comfy shoes, a water bottle, and chargers.
Clothes: Bring casual wear, a swimsuit or two, something for formal night, and a light jacket for breezy evenings on deck.
Don’t Overpack: Cabins have limited space. You won’t need 12 pairs of shoes.
Cruise-Specific Pro Tips: Magnetic hooks (walls are metal!), towel clips for the pool deck, and a small fan or noise machine if you’re a light sleeper.
Packing Cubes: These make unpacking in small cabins fast and efficient.
Day Bag for Port Days: A light backpack or crossbody bag for excursions.
🚢 Boarding Day: What to Expect
Get to Port Early: Check-in times are staggered—arrive on time to avoid long waits.
Luggage Drop: Porters will take your checked bags at the curb. Keep valuables and essentials in a carry-on.
Get Your Bearings: Explore the ship! Head to the Windjammer for lunch, grab a drink, and start checking off your must-dos.
Muster Drill: Mandatory safety briefing. Quick, easy, and digital on most ships.
Cabin Availability: Your stateroom won’t be ready until around 1:30–2 PM. Enjoy the ship until then.
Be ready so you can Enjoy
🍹 Must-Try Onboard Experiences
Dining: Try the Main Dining Room at least once, hit up specialty spots (Jamie’s, Chops Grille), and don’t miss late-night pizza at Sorrento’s.
Entertainment: From Broadway-style shows to aqua theater, there’s something every night. Reserve seats early using the app.
Pools & Activities: FlowRider, rock climbing, water slides, ice skating—yes, it’s all included.
Digital Badges: If you’re on a ship with Royal’s new Badge Program, don’t forget to check your app to see which ships you’ve “earned.”
Secret Spots: Every ship has hidden gems—like the helipad (Oasis class), the Solarium for adults-only relaxation, or quiet library corners for reading.
Bars with a View: The Rising Tide bar (Oasis class) moves between decks. It's a must-see.
🌍 Excursions & Ports
Book Ahead: Shore excursions sell out. Choose a mix of adventure (snorkeling!) and culture (walking tours!).
DIY Explorers: Want to save money? Research safe ports where you can explore on your own.
Return on Time: The ship will leave without you. Don’t be that person.
Port Day Essentials: Water, ID, sunscreen, cash, and your SeaPass card.
Excursion Alternatives: Don’t want to book through Royal? Use reputable third-party providers like Shore Excursions Group.
💳 Understanding Your SeaPass Card
Your Cruise Credit Card: Your SeaPass is used for everything—drinks, shopping, excursions.
Set a Budget: Check your balance in the app to avoid surprises.
Drink Packages: Decide early if it’s worth it. Soda packages are cheaper and useful for kids.
Photo Ops: Ship photographers will take your picture often—view and buy using your SeaPass.
💡 Final Tips from the Badge Fam
Wi-Fi Isn’t Free: If you need internet, purchase a VOOM package ahead of time.
Cash & Gratuities: Most expenses go on your SeaPass card, but bring small bills for tips and local purchases.
Cabin Hacks: Use shoe organizers for toiletries, keep your cruise card in a lanyard, and tip your room attendant—they’re magic.
Plan a Sea Day Strategy: Wake up early to claim a pool chair, attend an activity, or explore ship features before crowds.
Check the Cruise Compass Daily: It’s your guide to onboard events, dining hours, and can’t-miss entertainment.
🎉 You’re Ready to Cruise!
Your first cruise should be full of adventure, food, laughter, and unforgettable sunsets. And now that you’ve got the inside scoop, it’s smooth sailing from here.
Tag us in your first-time cruiser pics @HereForTheBadge and tell us what you loved most—we might feature you in our next blog!
Book your first cruise with RoyalCaribbean.com
Happy Cruising!