Tips for Enjoying Your Royal Caribbean Cruise
Here’s a view from the Viking Crown Lounge on Deck 14.
And here are some tips for your cruise:
- Pack light on sunscreen, heavier on cleanser.
- Remember that everything onboard caters to US standards: food portions, electrical outlets, and currency.
- Your daily cruise newsletter is your best friend. Delivered to your room every afternoon, it highlights all activities and indicates which ones require payment.
- Activities are scheduled with 15-minute gaps for transitions. Plan accordingly.
- Early arrival is recommended for everything except meals, which tend to open promptly.
- Expect crowds, especially after popular activities or at mealtimes. Consider alternative routes like less busy elevators, stairs, or even taking an elevator going in a different direction.
- Enjoy movies under the stars on clear nights – the picture and sound quality are excellent.
- Don’t miss the first evening’s performance – it’s always a highlight. In fact, all the shows are top-notch.
- Hand sanitizer is readily available throughout the ship, promoting cleanliness.
- Want a buffet seat? Arrive early. There’s no other secret.
- For free-seating fine dining, ensure your entire party is present before attempting to be seated together. Again, no secret tricks here.
- Feel free to order as many dishes as you like during fine dining.
- For breakfast, the upama at Windjammer (Deck 11) is a must-try. Dishes containing pork or beef are clearly marked, and dedicated Jain and vegetarian sections are available.
- Grab snacks at Cafe Promenade (Deck 5) almost any time, but be aware that seating is limited. This is also a great spot for a quick drink.
- Explore the library on Deck 8, offering a diverse collection of books in multiple languages and a book exchange corner.
- Mass dancing often takes place on Deck 5, outside the cafe. So, socializing in the cafe might be tricky.
- Looking for a place to chat? Check out the deck chairs on Decks 4, 11 (poolside), and 12 (overlooking the pools), or settle into the armchairs in the library and games room.
- For the best views, head to the Viking Crown Lounge on Deck 14, keeping in mind it may be reserved for private functions.
- Enjoy clear daytime movies by the pool on Deck 11, but be prepared to strategize for a good view.
- Have some fun in the games room on Deck 7, but note that tables and chairs are limited. The library (Deck 8) and games room (Deck 7) offer the most ergonomic workspaces if you must use a laptop, even though neither are designed for that purpose.
- Your stateroom is refreshed three times a day. A little appreciation for your stateroom attendant goes a long way.
- Show your appreciation for exceptional service (which you’ll likely experience from everyone) with tips or positive online reviews. Envelopes are provided on the last day, or you can request more at Guest Services on Deck 5.
- Wheelchair assistance, for both boarding and disembarking, should be arranged in advance. Instructions can be unclear, so contact Guest Services on Deck 5 for clarification.
- The ship uses facial recognition for various purposes, but if you need specific photos, just ask.
Explore Further
- See photos from the cruise on Facebook: Album Link
- Follow along with the hashtags: #cruisexperience, #royalcaribbean, #voyageroftheseas
Disclaimer: This review was not sponsored by Royal Caribbean. The author extends gratitude to the Voyager of the Seas crew and the Marina Bay Cruise Centre staff for their outstanding service, which contributed to a fantastic cruise experience for her parents.