Age Policy
Royal Caribbean maintains specific age requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience for all guests. Below is a clear guide to the minimum age to sail alone, as well as related policies for infants, alcohol consumption, gambling, and proof of age.
- Minimum Age to Sail Unaccompanied
North America Departures
Guests must be 21 years old to sail without a parent or guardian.
No guest under 21 will be assigned to a stateroom unless a 21+ adult is booked in the same cabin.
Underage married couples (must present proof of marriage)
Active-duty U.S. or Canadian military
Minors traveling in connecting staterooms with a parent/guardian
International Departures (South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand)
Guests may sail unaccompanied at 18 years old. - Royal Caribbean may adjust minimum age requirements at any time to comply with local laws and regional regulations.
Infant Policy
To ensure safety at sea, Royal Caribbean enforces strict minimum age requirements for infants:
Infants who do not meet the age requirement will be denied boarding, and no refunds or compensation will be issued.
6 months old on the first day of the cruise for most sailings.
12 months old for itineraries with:
Transatlantic or transpacific routes
Hawaii sailings
Select South America cruises
Cruises with 3+ consecutive sea days
Alcohol Policy
Royal Caribbean enforces legal drinking age standards that vary by region:
Minimum Drinking Age by Departure Port
21 years old: Sailings departing from North America or the Caribbean
18 years old: Sailings departing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand - Important
At Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, the drinking age is always 21, regardless of itinerary.
Guests may not provide alcohol to underage travelers.
Confiscated alcohol will not be returned to guests under 21.
Violations: including intoxication, supplying alcohol to minors, or bringing prohibited alcohol onboard, may result in denied boarding or removal from the ship at the guest’s own expense. - Gambling Policy
Guests must be 18 years or older to gamble in the ship’s casino.
On Alaska sailings, the minimum casino age increases to 21 due to state regulations. - Proof of Age Requirements
Royal Caribbean reserves the right to request government-issued ID for age verification at any time.
Age is determined by the guest’s age on the sailing date.
If a guest turns 21 during the cruise, they may request an onboard age update at Guest Services.
The guest must be accompanied by a parent/guardian and show valid ID confirming the birthdate.
Dining Information
Fuel every moment of adventure with Royal Caribbean’s incredible dining options. Whether you want a fast bite between activities, a sweet treat after a day in port, or a beautifully prepared multi-course dinner, Royal Caribbean offers delicious dining choices for every taste and travel style.
- Included Dining Options
Main Dining Room
Start your morning with a warm, hearty breakfast and end your day with a multi-course dinner served in a stylish, full-service dining room. Menus change daily and feature global flavors, classic favorites, and vegetarian options.
Windjammer Café
Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual meal, the Windjammer Café offers abundant choices — from international cuisine and themed stations to freshly grilled items and comfort food favorites.
Many of Royal Caribbean’s most popular dining venues, including the Main Dining Room and Windjammer, are included in your cruise fare, making it easy to enjoy great meals without extra cost.
Specialty Dining (Additional Charge)
For guests who love elevated culinary experiences, Royal Caribbean offers an impressive lineup of specialty restaurants:
Chops Grille® – Signature steakhouse
Johnny Rockets® – Classic American diner with burgers, fries, and shakes
Desserts, Treats & Casual Snacks
Ben & Jerry’s® – Ice cream, sundaes, and frozen favorites
Johnny Rockets® – Hand-spun shakes and fun desserts
Beverage & Soda Packages
Royal Caribbean offers soda packages for both adults and children on every ship. Purchase onboard at any bar or lounge for unlimited fountain soda throughout your sailing.
Dietary Needs & Special Requests
Royal Caribbean works hard to accommodate dietary requirements whenever possible. Guests may request:
Food allergy accommodations
Gluten-free meals
Kosher meals
Low-fat and low-sodium meals
Vegetarian choices are available daily in both the Dining Room and the Windjammer Café — no advance request needed.
Vegetarian meals, including Indian-style vegetarian options
Available at No Extra Charge
Lactose-free milk
Soy milk
Ensure nutritional drinks
Kosher meals (with advance notice)
Advance Notice Requirements
Notify the cruise line 45 days before sailing
For European and South American itineraries, notify 90 days in advance
Kosher for Passover requests must be received 90 days prior
Food & Infant Regulations
Infant formula is not provided onboard.
Guests may only bring:
Baby food
Dry, non-perishable snacks (cookies, crackers, chips, energy bars, etc.)
Perishable food from home is not permitted.
Fuel Surcharge Policy
At this time, Royal Caribbean does not charge a fuel supplement. However, the cruise line reserves the right to reinstate a fuel surcharge without prior notice if global oil prices rise significantly. If implemented, the charge would apply to all guests, including those already booked.
Payments / Refunds
Royal Caribbean requires:
- Deposit
A deposit amount varies by itinerary, cabin category, and promotion - Final Payment
Final payments are typically due 75–90 days before sailing for most cruises
Holiday, longer, or specialty itineraries may have earlier deadlines - Cancellation: Refunds and cancellation penalties depend on how far in advance you cancel.
Full refund if canceled before the penalty period
Increasing penalties as the sail date approaches
If you booked through Top Cruise Deals, our advisors can walk you through the exact terms for your sailing.
No refund once within the final penalty window
Smoking Policy
- Royal Caribbean maintains a clean-air stance onboard.
- Electronic cigarettes follow the same rules as traditional smoking.
- Smoking is prohibited in staterooms and balconies
- Designated outdoor smoking areas are available on each ship
- Indoor smoking is allowed only in certain casino sections and select cigar lounges (ship-specific)
- A deep-cleaning fee will apply if smoke odor is detected in a non-smoking stateroom
Travel Protection
Royal Caribbean strongly encourages purchasing a trip protection plan. Coverage typically includes:
- Top Cruise Deals offers multiple insurance options so guests can choose the level of protection that fits their trip.
Trip cancellation and interruption
Emergency medical treatment
Emergency evacuation
Lost or delayed luggage
Travel delays
Tipping Policy
Royal Caribbean’s recommended gratuities apply to dining staff, stateroom attendants, and service crew.
- Automatic Daily Gratuities
A per-day, per-guest charge is automatically added to your onboard account
Guests can prepay gratuities in advance or pay onboard
Amounts may change periodically, and Top Cruise Deals will display the most current rate at booking - Additional Tips
Specialty dining venues may add a service charge
Bar purchases automatically include a gratuity
Spa services include a service fee
Why Royal Carribean?
The Most Innovative Ships at Sea
Royal Caribbean continually pushes boundaries with game-changing ships like Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Oasis-Class favorites. Expect multi-neighborhood designs, world-first attractions, and immersive entertainment you won’t find anywhere else.
Endless Activities for All Ages
From surf simulators and zip lines to ice-skating rinks, climbing walls, water parks, and escape rooms, Royal Caribbean offers non-stop fun for families, kids, teens, and adults.
Award-Winning Family Experience
Royal Caribbean is consistently recognized as one of the best cruise lines for families. Spacious staterooms, supervised youth programs, and attractions designed for all generations make it the perfect choice for family vacations.
Exceptional Entertainment
Royal Caribbean stages Broadway-caliber productions, ice shows, AquaTheater performances, comedy clubs, live bands, and themed nightlife, all included in your cruise fare.
Dining That Fits Every Travel Style
From complimentary venues to elevated specialty dining, Royal Caribbean offers an unmatched variety: global flavors, fine dining, celebrity-chef concepts, casual poolside bites, and dietary-friendly menus.
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Guests love Royal Caribbean’s private island, offering beaches, snorkeling, thrill rides, lagoon pools, beach clubs, and the tallest waterslide in North America. Most experiences are included, with premium upgrades available.
Worldwide Destinations
Explore 300+ destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, Alaska, Asia, Australia, Transatlantic crossings, and more. Itineraries range from weekend escapes to grand voyages.
Value-Packed Cruise Fares
Royal Caribbean offers premium experiences at prices that remain highly competitive, a strong value for families and multi-generational groups.
Modern, Comfortable Accommodations
Choose from interior rooms to ocean views, balconies, suites, family rooms, multi-bedroom loft suites, and the Ultimate Family Suite, designed for comfort and convenience.
A Cruise Line That Constantly Evolves
From new ships to upgraded private destinations and refreshed onboard technology, Royal Caribbean is always innovating to elevate the modern cruise experience.
FAQ
What is included in a Royal Caribbean cruise fare?
Your fare includes accommodations, most dining venues, entertainment, onboard activities, fitness center access, youth programs, and many ship amenities. Specialty dining, Wi-Fi, drinks, and select attractions may cost extra.
Does Royal Caribbean offer drink packages?
Yes. You can choose from alcoholic packages, a Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic), or a Soda Package. Purchasing in advance often gives you the best price.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not typically included unless you prepay them. Daily gratuities are added to your onboard account unless prepaid through Top Cruise Deals.
Is Royal Caribbean good for families?
Absolutely. With award-winning kids’ clubs, family suites, water parks, splash zones, and attractions for every age, Royal Caribbean is one of the best family cruise lines at sea.
Do Royal Caribbean ships offer free Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is not included. Guests may purchase Voom Internet packages, often discounted when purchased before sailing.
Can I bring alcohol onboard?
You may bring a limited number of wine or champagne bottles on embarkation day. Beer and spirits are not permitted. Policies vary slightly by itinerary.
What is the dress code?
Most nights are “resort casual.” Some sailings include optional formal nights. Specialty dining venues may have specific attire guidelines.
Is Perfect Day at CocoCay included?
Access to the island itself is included. Premium experiences, such as the water park, cabanas, and Coco Beach Club, require an additional fee.
What time should I arrive at the cruise terminal?
Arrive at your assigned check-in window, as Royal Caribbean uses staggered arrival times to streamline boarding.
When is final payment due?
Final payment is usually due 75–90 days before sailing for most cruises. Holiday and longer itineraries may require earlier payment.