Before you book, check out our top ten tips to help you get the most for your money.
The early bird gets the worm
With Royal Caribbean, this saying if definitely true. Their best prices will nearly always appear when the sailing is released, which is around two years in advance. This does require early planning, but we've found that a lot can be saved by being this organised. It also allows you to take your pick of the cabins, as the most expensive and cheapest offerings will quickly get snapped up.
Timing is key
As expected, prices for Royal Caribbean are much higher in the summer months when the kids are not at school and when the top destinations are experiencing their peak temperatures. You'll find therefore that bookings between September and February (excluding the Christmas period) are far cheaper. This can coincide with hurricane season in the Caribbean (rest assured, the company have their own meteorologist to ensure your safety at all times) or cooler temperatures across the Northern Hemisphere, but the ships will often be quieter, as will the ports of call. You're also far less likely to be cruising with lots of children, a bonus if you're planning that romantic getaway.
Find the best deal
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your Royal Caribbean cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
Push the boat out with Royal Suite Class
If it's in your budget, we highly recommend upgrading to Suite Class. There are three tiers: sea, sky and star. This allows you to experience everything these extraordinary ships have to offer. You will get priority boarding, access to luxury spaces and first come choice of bookings onboard. Most importantly, your gorgeous room will have thoughtful extras added such as a coffee machine, robes and luxury toiletries.
The Ultimate Family Suite on Symphony of the Seas is the ultimate experience for younger guests
Arrive early
If flying to the departure point, try your best to arrive a day early, as we've known customers to miss their cruise due to airport delays on the day. Early arrival also allows you time to explore a new city, getting your holiday off to a great start.
Get the app
Set a reminder to download the Royal Caribbean app exactly 30 days before departure. This will allow you to book and purchase elements of your trip (as detailed below) and also secure your check in time. Getting ahead is the only way to ensure that you'll get an early check-in slot, so you can be one of the first to explore your new ship.
Book shore excursions via the Royal Caribbean app
Buy your packages in advance
The cheapest way to ensure WiFi, speciality dining and drinks packages is to buy them on the app. Royal Caribbean will often have offers on their website, so watch closely to get the best deals.
Reserve your seat
We've found it's best to book your entertainment shows at the same time as your packages. These are free, but they are often all booked before departure, so it's best to be prepared. If you change your mind on board, you can give up your tickets without a charge. The same goes with main dining room tables. Again, they are free, but are often booked out at peak times and so if you wish to eat dinner at a certain time, especially if you have hungry children, we highly recommend logging into My Time Dining and booking your dinner reservation before you set sail. Booking additional charge items such as spa times and excursions is also a good idea, as they can also get booked out quickly.
Teetotal savings
On most cruise lines, everyone in your party will need to buy the same drinks package and several Unlimited Drinks Packages can be expensive and unfair for non-drinkers. However, on Royal Caribbean, if one of your party doesn't drink alcohol, they are able to downgrade to the Refreshment Package, which works out much cheaper, but will still keep those mocktails flowing.
Found a better deal?
When pre booking anything on the app, you are able to cancel and get a full refund. Therefore, if you're drinks package or excursion becomes cheaper, you can get the reduced price. So keep an eye out for sales, even after purchase.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your Royal Caribbean cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
