A recent cruise aboard MSC Seascape featured a confrontation between passengers that led to one being kicked off at the first port of call, and a second being arrested at the end of the cruise.
Kelli Lyn Ryan photo credit: Miami-Dade Corrections & Rehabilitation
The incident occurred on October 6, 2024, just a day after the ship departed from PortMiami.
Kelli Lyn Ryan, 49, and her son, Dylan Ryan, allegedly became involved in an altercation with an elderly passenger inside the Chora Theater, the ship’s main entertainment venue.
According to reports, security footage shows Kelli Lyn slapping the elderly individual, followed by her son repeatedly hitting the same victim.
The exact cause of the altercation remains undisclosed, but there are no reports of the elderly passenger getting into any trouble with the cruise line or police ashore.
Following the incident, Dylan Ryan was kicked off the ship at its first port of call, Falmouth, Jamaica, on October 7.
However, Kelli Lyn wasn’t – she was allowed to stay onboard and enjoy the rest of the cruise, which made stops at Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay, before returning to PortMiami.
Upon the ship’s return on October 12, Kelli Lyn was arrested and charged with battery on a person aged 65 or older.
Violence and fights on cruise ships
Most people who book a cruise holiday will enjoy it without any bad experiences, but that doesn’t mean there is never any violence onboard the ships.
Indeed, on an MSC cruise in August, a guest assaulted a comedian on stage by throwing their drink at him, after loudly arguing with them during a performance.
Carnival is another cruise line which has seen some passenger fights in recent months, including a large brawl at the buffet on Carnival Paradise in July which led to several guests getting banned.
And at a similar time, two men were filmed fighting onboard a Royal Caribbean ship sailing out of Galveston.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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Several cruise passengers have reported being visited by security on a Royal Caribbean cruise, following complaints about social media posts.
The story originates from posts on a Facebook group for the transpacific cruise on Quantum of the Seas, where a guest made several posts.
These included asking for information on how to speak to the Captain or one of the “Genies” (referring to the Royal Genies, the name that Royal Caribbean gives butlers), and a post where they expressed disappointment that a crew member blocked their photo of a sunset.
These posts were then mocked on a separate Facebook group named Entitlement of the Seas, where cruise passengers like to poke gentle fun at those who act entitled on cruises or make complaints of an entitled nature.
Following these posts, three passengers noted that they were visited onboard by security, who had received complaints from the original passenger, saying that she felt “threatened”.
One of those visited by security noted that she wasn’t given any severe warning but the security team did ask for the guest to take their Facebook post down so that the passenger could enjoy the rest of their trip.
One passenger who was visited by security felt strongly about it, arguing that they weren’t bullying or being threatening, and that the cruise line should’ve then returned to the complaining passenger to warn them about making false claims.
Interestingly, Entitlement of the Seas is a private Facebook group, and the complaining passenger wasn’t a member, according to those reacting in the comments.
Which means that someone in the group found the screenshots and decided to send them to the complaining passenger – the plot thickens!
What do you think? Is complaining to cruise ship security about Facebook activity taking things way too far, or does that guest have a right to feel victimised?
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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The main Navigator of the Seas rooms to avoid are cabins on deck 10 directly beneath the deck 11 pool area and Windjammer, Promenade view interiors on the lower promenade decks if you are a light sleeper, far-forward cabins if you get seasick, and some aft-facing junior suites where the ship’s structure blocks part of the view. The best all-round picks are midship cabins on decks 7 to 9, which sit away from both overhead noise and the busiest public spaces.
Below you will find a quick table of every cabin type, the specific areas that cause complaints, and the best interior, oceanview, balcony and suite choices on this Voyager-class ship, updated for the 2026-27 season.
Navigator of the Seas in November 2026: where it sails
Navigator of the Seas spent several years sailing three- to eight-night Mexican Riviera and Baja cruises from Los Angeles. For winter 2026-27, Royal Caribbean has sent it to Asia for the first time. After an 11-night Far East repositioning from Tokyo (Yokohama) that set off in mid-October, the ship arrived at Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre at the end of October 2026 and is scheduled to homeport there until around February 2027, sailing short Malaysia and Thailand getaways (Penang, Phuket, Langkawi) plus a few longer Thailand and Vietnam voyages. Longer sailings to Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong follow early in 2027. Deployments do change, so confirm your exact itinerary on the Royal Caribbean website.
The ship itself is the same one many US cruisers know. Launched in 2002, it received a roughly $115 million “Royal Amplified” refit in early 2019 that added The Blaster aqua coaster, the Riptide mat-racer slide, a refreshed pool deck, The Lime and Coconut bar, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Hooked Seafood, laser tag and an escape room. Those additions matter for cabin choice because they made the top decks busier and louder than they were before.
Navigator of the Seas cabin types at a glance
Navigator has 1,674 staterooms spread across nine decks with cabins (2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12). Sizes below are typical figures from published deck plans; individual cabins can vary, so always check the specific room.
Cabin type
Approx. size
Where you find them
Good to know
Interior
150 sq ft (some smaller)
Decks 3 and 6 to 11
Cheapest option; some now have a virtual balcony screen
Promenade view interior
160 sq ft
Decks 6, 7 and 8
Window overlooks the indoor Royal Promenade
Oceanview
160 sq ft
Decks 2, 3, 6, 7 and 9
Large porthole-style window; lower decks are cheapest
Spacious / Ultra Spacious oceanview
175 to 293 sq ft
Decks 6 to 9, forward and aft
Good for families; ultra spacious rooms sleep up to six
Panoramic oceanview
About 190 sq ft
Deck 12 forward
Wraparound windows near the spa and fitness center
Balcony
About 184 sq ft + 50 sq ft balcony
Decks 6 to 12
The standard balcony room
Spacious balcony
About 199 sq ft + 65 sq ft balcony
Decks 6 to 11
A little more room inside and out
Junior Suite
About 264 sq ft + 75 sq ft balcony
Decks 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11
Bathtub and more space, but limited suite perks
Grand Suite (1 and 2 bedroom)
401 to 574 sq ft
Deck 10; two-bedroom versions aft on decks 8 and 9
Full suite perks; two-bedroom versions sleep up to eight
No cabin on Navigator is truly bad, but a few locations generate the same complaints again and again. Use the official deck plan to check what sits directly above, below and next to any room before you pay a deposit.
1. Deck 10 cabins under the pool deck and Windjammer
Deck 10 is the last full cabin deck before the deck 11 pool area, which holds the main pools, bars and the Windjammer buffet. Guests in some deck 10 cabins report chairs being dragged on the deck above early in the morning, carts rolling at odd hours and, in a few cases, footsteps and voices well after midnight from people passing through outdoor smoking or bar areas. Not everyone notices, but if you sleep lightly, deck 9 is the safer choice and is often priced the same.
2. Promenade view interiors on the lowest promenade deck
Navigator’s Royal Promenade runs along deck 5, and the inward-facing Promenade view cabins on decks 6, 7 and 8 look down on it. They are fun if you like watching the parades and street life, but music, crowds and late events can carry. If you want one, deck 8 puts more distance between you and the action than deck 6. Also remember curtains stay closed if you want privacy, since people below can see lit windows at night.
3. Far forward cabins if you are prone to seasickness
The bow moves the most in a swell, and cabins on the lowest decks forward can also pick up anchor and thruster noise in port. That matters more on a ship now sailing in Asia, where repositioning voyages across open water are longer than the short Mexico runs many Navigator regulars are used to. Midship cabins on decks 6 to 9 move the least.
4. Lower-deck cabins near the theater and Studio B
The Royal Theater and Studio B (the ice rink and events venue) sit low in the ship, around decks 2 to 4. Cabins next to or directly below these venues can hear rehearsals, set changes and crowds. Lower-deck oceanview cabins on decks 2 and 3 are good value, just pick one away from these spaces.
5. Aft-facing junior suites and balconies with obstructions
Aft-facing rooms have wide wake views, but on Navigator several aft junior suites and balconies look over parts of the ship’s superstructure, and on the lower aft decks you may not see the water directly below you. Higher decks generally have less in the way. Rooms sold as obstructed are usually labeled when you book, but the degree varies, so search for photos of your exact cabin number before committing.
6. Cabins next to the Royal Suite or busy stairwells
One reported trouble spot is the cabins beside the Royal Suite on deck 10, where the suite’s whirlpool and stairwell traffic can be heard. More generally, rooms opposite elevators, stairwells or crew doors see constant foot traffic. A cabin a few doors along the corridor is usually quieter for the same fare.
7. Long walks at the very ends of the ship
Navigator is about 1,020 feet long. A cabin at the far forward or aft end of a long corridor can mean a lengthy walk to the midship elevators several times a day, which adds up for anyone with limited mobility or small children.
A balcony with a clear sea view is worth checking for on the deck plan before you book. Photo: Gotta Be Worth It on Pexels
Choosing your own cabin vs a guarantee cabin
When you book, you can select a specific stateroom or take a guarantee (GTY) rate, where Royal Caribbean assigns the room closer to sailing. Guarantees are usually a little cheaper and occasionally end in an upgrade, but you give up control over location, so you could end up under the pool deck or far forward. If any of the issues above would spoil your trip, pay the small premium and choose your room.
Booking several cabins for a family or group? Look for connecting rooms or adjacent rooms on the same side of the corridor, and book them at the same time. Note that connecting doors can let more sound through if your neighbor is not part of your group.
Best decks on Navigator of the Seas
Decks 7, 8 and 9 are the sweet spot. They have public spaces neither above nor below for most of their length, they sit in the middle of the ship for stability, and they are close to the Royal Promenade and the pool deck by elevator. Deck 6 is fine for most cabins but sits right above the promenade. Deck 12 is a mix of cabins and public spaces, including the spa, fitness center and youth areas, so check neighbors carefully.
Best cabins on Navigator of the Seas
Best inside cabin: the virtual balcony
Royal Caribbean has fitted 81 interior cabins on Navigator with a floor-to-ceiling “virtual balcony” screen that shows a real-time view outside the ship. They feel noticeably less closed in than a standard inside room, though the price gap to a real balcony can be small on some sailings, so compare both. For a standard interior, a midship room on decks 7 to 9 is the safest pick.
Best oceanview cabin
The Panoramic oceanview rooms forward on deck 12, with wraparound windows, are the stand-out non-balcony choice, though you will feel more motion this far forward and high. For value, the oceanview rooms on deck 3 can be slightly larger than standard at the same price. Families of up to six should look at the Ultra Spacious oceanview rooms on decks 6 to 9.
Best Navigator of the Seas balcony room
A spacious balcony room midship on decks 7, 8 or 9 offers the most comfort for the money, with a bigger balcony than the standard category and a quiet, stable location. If you are on deck 6, double-check the view on the deck plan, as some lower balconies are more overlooked. For a bigger outdoor space, the corner and aft balconies can be generous, but read the notes on obstructions above.
Best Navigator of the Seas junior suite
Junior suites add a bathtub, more floor space and a larger balcony. A midship junior suite on deck 9 avoids the deck 10 noise risk. A handful of deck 11 junior suites have unusually large balconies listed at several hundred square feet, which makes them popular, but they sit on the pool deck level, so think about what is next door.
Suites are limited on Navigator, so the best ones tend to sell out early. Photo: Max Vakhtbovych on Pexels
Best suite: the Royal Suite and other top choices
The single Royal Suite midship on deck 10 is the largest room on board at roughly 1,336 square feet plus a balcony, with a separate bedroom, living and dining space and a whirlpool. Below that, the Owner’s Suites and one-bedroom Grand Suites on deck 10 give full suite benefits, such as concierge access, for considerably less. The four two-bedroom Grand Suites (formerly called Royal Family Suites) aft on decks 8 and 9 are the pick for families of up to eight. Suites are limited and can sell out a year ahead.
Navigator vs Mariner of the Seas: is the cabin advice the same?
Navigator and Mariner of the Seas are Voyager-class sister ships with almost identical layouts, so the same general rules apply on both: avoid cabins under the pool deck if you sleep lightly, think carefully about promenade views, and favor midship rooms on the middle decks. The differences are mostly on the top decks. Mariner was amplified in 2018 with features like Sky Pad and Perfect Storm slides, while Navigator’s 2019 refit brought The Blaster and Riptide. Check what sits above your cabin on each ship’s own deck plan rather than assuming they match exactly.
For most people, decks 7, 8 and 9 midship are the safest choice. They sit between the Royal Promenade below and the pool deck above, so you avoid most overhead noise, and midship cabins feel the least motion in rough seas.
Are cabins on deck 10 of Navigator of the Seas noisy?
Some can be. Deck 10 is directly below the deck 11 pool area, bars and Windjammer, and past guests have reported chair scraping, cart noise and late-night footsteps. Check the deck plan and pick a cabin with more cabins, not public space, above it.
Are Promenade view rooms on Navigator of the Seas worth it?
They suit people-watchers who like a window without paying for an oceanview. Light sleepers should be careful, as the Royal Promenade stays lively late and parades and music can carry into rooms on the lower promenade decks.
Should I book a guarantee cabin on Navigator of the Seas?
A guarantee (GTY) cabin is usually cheaper, but Royal Caribbean picks the location, which could be under the pool deck or far forward. It is a good deal if you are flexible and a poor one if you are noise or motion sensitive.
Where is the Royal Suite on Navigator of the Seas?
There is one Royal Suite on the ship, located midship on deck 10. At around 1,336 square feet plus a large balcony, it is the biggest accommodation on board.
If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you may have heard the captain communicating with the crew using codes, and you might wonder what they mean.
When I hear a code spoken over the public address system, the first thing I think is, “I wonder what that means?” After all, it must be something set, otherwise, they would just say what the problem is!
In this article, I’ll reveal the meanings of some of the most common secret cruise codes, so you’ll no longer be kept in the dark about what’s going on on board your cruise ship.
But a quick note first – don’t let this article worry you if you’re nervous about cruising! You’ll rarely, if ever, hear these codes and even if you do, the crew will handle things quickly and efficiently.
1. Charlie Alpha
“Charlie” means a security threat, and Alpha” communicates a medical emergency. If you hear both, it’s a security threat caused by a medical emergency.
The code “Charlie Charlie Charlie” is used when the captain needs to communicate to the crew that there’s a security threat. If you hear it, try to remain calm and await instructions. This particular code is known to be used on Royal Caribbean cruises.
3. Alpha Alpha Alpha
The code “Alpha Alpha Alpha” is used to alert cruise ship crew to an onboard medical emergency. This code is known to be used on Royal Caribbean cruises, but other companies may use a single code Alpha. Either way, the Alpha Alpha Alpha cruise ship code means that somebody is in need of urgent medical attention.
4. Bravo
It might be repeated three times, so you might hear it as “Bravo Bravo Bravo,” but either way, “Bravo” means there’s a fire on board. Be sure to follow all instructions from the crew to ensure your safety – though this applies to all cruise ship codes, really.
5. Delta
Codes aren’t standardised across cruise lines, so the meaning if the code “Delta” depends on who you’re sailing with. It often means damage to the ship, but a former Norwegian Cruise Line employee wrote on the Cruise Critic Message Board that NCL uses the “Delta” cruise code to inform of pollution.
6. Mike
The code “Mike” is used by the cruise line Oceania Cruises to communicate to the crew that there is a medical emergency on board that requires urgent attention. Therefore, the code “Mike” performs a similar function to Alpha, but on Oceania Cruises only.
7. Oscar
The cruise code “Oscar” is one of the most important and urgent there is. It’s used by both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises to alert the crew to a man overboard.
The cruise code “Kilo” is used when the captain needs to request that all crew members report to their emergency stations. The code “Kilo” is known to be used on Royal Caribbean ships, and it may be said three times.
9. Papa
The cruise code “Papa” may sound innocuous, and cute even, but don’t be lulled into a false sense of security, it means the ship has encountered an oil spill or some other form of pollution.
10. Victoria
A cruise passenger on the Cruise Critic message boards has reported that the cruise code Victoria is used by Marella for “extreme flooding”. It’s not a code I’ve heard, but if you’re on a Marella cruise and you hear “Victoria,” there’s likely flooding on board.
11. Code 7
“Code 7” likely relates to the seven short blasts and one long blast that signals that all guests and crew must report to their muster stations.
You should be briefed on this during your muster drill as it’s important that you take action. Put on warm clothing, gather any medication you need and head straight to your assigned muster station for further information.
12. Code Red
On a cruise ship, “Code Red” means that an illness has broken out on board. This is often norovirus, which sadly, isn’t exactly uncommon on board cruise ships, as regular cruisers will know.
I have been on a cruise ship during a norovirus outbreak and have heard this code. Unfortunately, my daughter was quarantined to the cabin for 24 hours after becoming sick. The rest of our family managed to avoid it.
On a cruise, “Code Purple” is used to signify a bomb threat or some other form of chemical or biological threat. If you hear it, you’ll probably be a bit scared, but try not to panic, the crew will have robust procedures in place to deal with it.
An announcement of “Code Black” on a cruise can be used to alert the crew to a few possible situations – none of them good. A code black can mean the possibility of a violent confrontation, or the possibility of a suicide threat.
15. Code Gray
Code Gray alerts the crew to the presence of an abusive person or a combative person on board. I’m sure it won’t be you but do remember to be respectful to your crew and fellow cruise travellers at all times.
16. Code Pink
Code Pink is used to alert the crew that an infant under the age of 12 months is suspected (or confirmed) as missing. This is a rarely used code that I hope you’ll never hear on any of your cruises.
17. Code Green
On a cruise, “Code Green” is generally nothing to worry about, and just the captain alerting the crew to a less serious issue on board. Think of it as a kind of “traffic light system, with green for go” meaning things are relatively fine.
18. Code Blue
Some cruise lines use “Code Blue” as an alternative to “Alpha” codes to communicate that there is a medical emergency on board. Alternatively, some cruise lines use “Code Blue” to warn of hull damage. So the meaning of this code really depends on the ship.
19. Code Yellow
Similar to “Code Green”, the ship’s captain might use the cruise code “Code Yellow” to alert the crew to a less serious issue. The traffic light analogy holds up, with yellow (similar to amber) being nothing serious to worry about.
20. Sierra
The secret cruise code “Sierra” is used to communicate that a stretcher is required on board to assist with a medical emergency. Due to this, you might hear the “Sierra” cruise code after you hear one of the “Alpha” cruise codes.
A code like this is unlikely to be announced to the whole ship. Instead, it will be radioed to the medical centre on board.
21. Echo
If you hear the “Echo” cruise code, this means that the ship has started to drift, but don’t panic! It’s possible that the Captain will get the ship back under control – they’ll certainly have a procedure for correcting the problem.
The bottom line
I hope my article hasn’t made you anxious about your cruise, as that certainly wasn’t my intention. Remember that it’s unlikely that you’ll hear most, if any, of these cruise codes during your cruise, but it’s always worth being in the know about what they mean.
Also, remember that your cruise crew and captain will be highly trained professionals who will be able to deal with any emergency efficiently, so even if you do hear one of these cruise codes, there’s no need to panic!
After reading about secret cruise codes you may be wondering whether your cruise crew will include doctors or police officers, well, for your peace of mind, I’ve written articles answering these questions.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
If you’ve never cruised before, it’s really important to know what NOT to pack to take on the ship. You’ll want to avoid any potentially embarrassing situations at check-in by making sure you don’t pack any cruise ship contraband.
Cruise port staff regularly scan and search passengers’ bags, and if any of your belongings are confiscated, it’s highly likely that you won’t get them back. So, what can’t you take on a cruise? Read on to find out!
Spoiler: You can’t take any of this stuff!
Photo: Janice Leeson
Food & drink
Alcohol rules vary by cruise line
Some cruise ships allow you to bring your own alcohol on board, although this is usually limited to one bottle of wine per person. It’s usually free to drink in your room, but if you want to take your own alcohol into public areas on the ship, they charge a corkage fee of around $15 per bottle.
Drinks on board a cruise ship can be expensive. Whilst P&O Cruises charge pub prices for drinks, some other cruise lines charge much more. If you’d rather not pay $15 for a glass of wine, then you’ll probably want to know whether you can save money by bringing your own booze on your cruise.
The great news is that most cruise lines DO allow you to bring some alcohol on-board with you. However, the limits are usually pretty small – just one bottle of wine, or maybe Champagne.
P&O Cruises used to let you bring beers and spirits but that changed in May 2024.
Some cruise ships allow passengers to bring some wine on board to drink in their cabin. There is usually no corkage fee, as long as you don’t drink it in any of the public areas of the ship. If you want to drink your own wine in a bar or restaurant, you’ll be charged around $15.
The following table shows how much wine you can bring with you on your cruise…
Cruise Line
How much wine can you bring?
Carnival
One bottle per person
Celebrity
One bottle per person
Costa
None
Cunard
One bottle per person
Disney
Two bottles per person
MSC Cruises
None
NCL
Unlimited but $15 fee per bottle
P&O Cruises
One litre per person
Princess Cruises
One bottle per person for free then $15 per additional bottle
Royal Caribbean
One bottle per person
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Most cruise lines permit bottled water
Most cruise lines allow guests to bring bottled water with them, but not all. If you’re cruising with Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises or NCL, you won’t be allowed to bring water unless it’s needed for medical purposes.
The reason behind this is that, in the past, people have used water bottles to hide spirits or other drinks. Banning water and soft drinks has undoubtedly made it easier for cruise lines to spot anyone sneaking alcohol on board.
The following table shows how much water or other non-alcoholic drinks you can bring on your cruise…
Cruise Line
Non-alcoholic drinks allowance per passenger
Carnival
12 x 330ml cans or cartons
Celebrity
No limit
Costa
Water only permitted for medical needs
Cunard
No limit
Disney
No limit
MSC Cruises
Water only permitted for medical needs
NCL
Water only permitted for medical needs
P&O Cruises
No limit
Princess Cruises
No limit
Royal Caribbean
12 x 500ml bottles, cans or cartons (per stateroom)
Snacks are usually fine
You can take most types of snacks with you on board a cruise ship, including crisps, sweets, and biscuits. (That’s chips, candy, and cookies if you’re from the US).
We usually take a few cereal bars, a tube of Pringles and maybe some sweets for the kids. There’s always lots of food available on board, but sometimes it’s nice to have your favourite snacks too.
Whilst packaged food is always fine to bring on a cruise, you may not be allowed to take perishable items such as fresh fruit or any homemade food like sandwiches. It really depends on your cruise line’s food policy and on the local laws of the ports which you’re cruising from and to.
Cruise ship food is generally some of the best in the world. Special diets are catered for really well. So, if you’re at all concerned about being able to eat the food on-board, have a chat with your cruise line representative before you cruise and they’ll make sure that you’re well catered for on the ship.
Protein powder is also allowed (but be careful)
You are allowed to take protein powder on a cruise ship. It’s best to bring it in a sealed new container and to pack it in your carry-on bag to avoid arousing suspicion.
If you’re planning to carry a big bag of white powder through security, I can see why you might be a little worried about ending up in the naughty room being asked questions. However, in reality, plenty of cruisers bring protein powder on board without an issue. You don’t need to worry about bringing protein powder on a cruise.
Electrical items
Hair straighteners are OK but may not work properly
Hair straighteners and curling irons are allowed on cruise ships. While most appliances that produce heat are forbidden, cruise lines make an exception for hair styling devices.
You may need to consider the voltage of your appliances as some UK hair straighteners may not work on board American ships without a voltage converter.
My old GHD hair straighteners didn’t get hot in the USA or on cruise ships. But my newer ones work just fine. If you’re not sure, it’s worth Googling the model of hair straightener that you have to check.
Power strips/extension cables – strict rules apply
You may be able to take a power strip or extension cable on a cruise, so long as it meets the cruise line’s requirements. Cruise ships require that power strips do not have a surge protector, as this could overload the circuit and cause a fire. Extension cords should be less than one metre long.
It’s a bit weird since, on a home electrical network, a surge-protected strip is the safer option. But cruise ships aren’t wired up like your house.
With many of us taking a multitude of electronic devices such as cameras, phones and tablet computers, which all need to be charged, people often worry whether there will be enough plug sockets in their cruise cabin to plug everything in.
The number of electrical sockets varies from ship to ship, with some cruise ships only having two power outlets per cabin. The type of power outlets also varies, with some ships having a mix of UK, USA and European sockets.
If you’re wondering how many plug sockets will be on your cruise ship, you can find that information here.
You do need to check with your cruise line though. Royal Caribbean doesn’t allow extension cords at all, and also recently updated the ban to include multi-plugs.
The best solution to the issue of not having enough plug sockets or them being the wrong type is to get a 4-port USB universal charger plug.
This universal charger will fit into any plug socket (UK/USA/EU/AUS) and enable you to charge four devices at the same time.
Hair dryers are provided but you can bring your own
All cruise ship cabins are equipped with hairdryers that guests may use free of charge. The hairdryers vary in quality, and some have low wattage, so they are not very powerful. If you have long, thick hair, you may prefer to bring your own hairdryer from home.
When I cruised on the Disney Magic, the hairdryer that was attached to the wall in the bathroom was over twenty years old and pretty useless. However, there was another hairdryer in a drawer in the living area.
Irons usually aren’t allowed
Cruise lines generally do not allow guests to take clothing irons or travel irons on cruise ships. One exception is Marella Cruises, which does permit travel irons on board its ships.
Alternatives to bringing an iron on your cruise include:
Crease remover spray – lots of cruisers swear by this
Using an iron in the ship’s laundry room
Sending your clothes to the ship’s laundry to be pressed
Clothes steamers are not allowed on cruise ships as they are considered a safety hazard. Just like irons, there’s a chance that a garment steamer could cause a fire, so they are not allowed to be brought onto any cruise ship.
Packing a drone? Don’t use it on the ship
Some cruise lines allow guests to bring drones on board cruise ships. However, you aren’t allowed to fly the drone while on the ship. It may only be used on land, away from port areas.
If you want to bring a drone on your cruise to use on land, you should check with the cruise line before you travel. Some cruise lines do not permit drones, even if they remain stored in your cabin, and they may confiscate them when you check in.
Most cruise lines allow walkie-talkies
Walkie-talkies are allowed on cruise ships, but they often don’t work too well on board. Most walls on cruise ships are made of metal, which kills the signal, so you may find that bringing a walkie-talkie on your cruise is a waste of time.
A pair of walkie-talkies that might work over several miles on land, probably won’t work across the length of a cruise ship. As well as all the metal walls, cruise ships have large obstacles like swimming pools and elevators, which can all block the signal from a walkie-talkie.
If you really want to use a walkie-talkie on a cruise ship, you can’t just buy any cheap model and hope that it will work. You’ll need a powerful two-way radio that can transmit a strong enough signal to get through all of those metal walls.
Liquids are fine – don’t expect airport rules for cruises
Whilst airports limit the amount of liquids you can take in your hand luggage, there are no such rules on cruise ships for liquid toiletry items. You can take as many liquids as you like on a cruise.
However, cruise lines do restrict the amount of alcohol you can take on board with you, and some even prohibit you from bringing soft drinks and bottled water aboard, so be sure to check the rules on that.
If you’re flying to join your cruise, you should be aware of airport restrictions on liquids and pack them in your checked baggage rather than your carry-on luggage.
So full-size toiletries are OK
There are no limits to the size of toiletries you can take on board a cruise ship. There’s probably no need to bring a 500ml bottle of shampoo with you, but if you really want to, there’s nothing to stop you.
In fact, cruise ships have no restrictions on luggage weight. Your luggage allowance will only be limited if you have to take a flight to join your cruise ship.
Medical equipment
Oxygen canisters are usually OK
Cruise lines are generally very accommodating for medical needs, and most cruise lines permit guests to bring oxygen with them on their cruise ships.
However, cruise lines’ policies about the use of medical oxygen vary, so it’s best to check with the company you plan to cruise with to find out exactly what can be brought on board and how to check it in.
If you need to use oxygen therapy to help with conditions such as COPD, cystic fibrosis and heart failure, you’ll find lots of information about cruising with oxygen here: travelwithoxygen.com
Wheelchairs are permitted
You are allowed to take a wheelchair on a cruise ship, although they may not be allowed on some river cruise ships. Collapsible wheelchairs can be used in most cabins. If your wheelchair doesn’t fold down, you’ll likely need to book an accessible cabin for your cruise.
If you don’t usually use a wheelchair but are worried about being able to walk long distances in ports, or concerned about keeping your balance with the movement of the ship, you might want to buy a lightweight travel wheelchair for your cruise.
Lightweight wheelchairs can fold down into a bag so you can store it under your bed and get it out if and when you might need it.
Check the rules for your cruise line too, before you book. P&O Cruises now only permit a certain number of guests onboard with wheelchairs or mobility scooters, even if you only use them temporarily.
That’s because they need to make sure they’ve enough crew to help anyone with a mobility issue during an emergency. Some people have been barred from cruising because they didn’t declare they needed a wheelchair or mobility scooter!
Mobility scooters are allowed (and common)
Mobility scooters are allowed on cruise ships. However, there may be restrictions on the types of batteries that can be used, and you may be required to book an accessible cabin.
Each cruise line has its own policy about the use of mobility scooters, so be sure to ask your cruise line or travel agent when you book.
CBD – even medicinal – is banned
You won’t be able to take any CBD products on a cruise with you, even if you have a prescription from your doctor. If you are concerned about not being able to use CBD products during your cruise, ask your doctor for temporary alternatives.
It’s essentially a blanket ban – there are a lot of different laws about CBD use in the countries that cruise ships visit, so they keep things simple by banning it outright.
Babies are allowed on family-friendly cruise ships, but they need to be at least 6 months or 12 months old, depending on the cruise line and the itinerary. Some cruise ships do not allow children at all.
Most cruise lines require that babies are at least six months old to cruise. However, MSC Cruises has no minimum age for babies, so if you want to cruise with a young baby, this is the cruise line to choose.
The age requirement for babies on cruise ships may be increased to 12 months on cruises that have a lot of consecutive days at sea (such as transatlantic cruises) or visit exotic and remote destinations.
You can’t take a baby monitor on a cruise with you. It wouldn’t work anyway – cruise ship staterooms have metal walls, and so the signal would be blocked. You also wouldn’t be able to connect a WiFi baby monitor to the network on a cruise ship – they won’t allow you to connect.
Instead, most cruise lines that allow babies will have some form of babysitting service, which normally comes with an additional cost. While babysitting staff on a cruise ship will be able to change nappies or feed your child, you’ll be expected to provide the supplies to do so.
Bottle warmers and sterilisers may be banned, so check
Some cruise lines outright ban bottle warmers and sterilisers, but check with your cruise line as they may permit travel sterilisers. Costa, Cunard, Disney and P&O all have a limited number of sterilisers on the ship that you can hire.
Otherwise, you may want to take sterilising tablets with you instead, and wash the bottles in the sink of your cabin. It might not be quite as sanitary but it should be sufficient to keep your baby safe.
Rules on dogs
Service dogs are allowed on cruise ships, but pet dogs are usually not. The only cruise ship to allow pet dogs is Cunard’s Queen Queen Mary 2, which has special kennels to accommodate dogs on transatlantic cruises.
Queen Mary 2 has luxurious onboard kennels and indoor and outdoor exercise spaces for pets. Dogs are looked after by the ship’s Kennel Master, with owners allowed to visit at set times.
But, before you go ahead and book a cruise with your dog, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. Kennel spaces on Queen Mary 2 cost $800 for dogs under 26lbs and $1000 for dogs weighing over 26lbs!
Very large dogs such as Great Danes, Dobermans, Bull Mastiffs, and Greyhounds aren’t allowed as they would be too big for the kennels.
You’ll also need to get your dog a health certificate from your vet and a rabies vaccine before cruising. If that doesn’t put you off, you should get your dogs’ names down for a place as soon as possible, as kennel spaces often book up far in advance.
Service dogs such as guide dogs, hearing dogs and seizure-alert dogs are welcome on most cruise ships. On my last cruise, I saw a Labrador guide dog who was helping a visually impaired guest and a German Shepherd dog. I’m not sure what his job was, but he was very well-behaved.
To bring a service dog on a cruise, your dog must be officially registered, and you’ll need to get permission from the cruise line before you book.
In the past, a handful of people have been known to bring pet dogs on cruises by pretending that they’re service dogs. Obviously, this hasn’t been well-received when these dogs haven’t been as well-trained as professional assistance dog would be!
Cruise lines have cracked down on this and now require paperwork when booking a cruise with a service dog. Emotional support dogs, which may help with certain mental health conditions, are not allowed on board most cruise ships.
What about cats?
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 cruise ships also permit cats, dogs and ferrets to travel in the kennels on transatlantic crossings.
Most cruise ships have a smoking area, which includes traditional cigarettes, so you are allowed to take matches or a lighter on board for these purposes. You aren’t allowed to take a torch lighter onto a ship, or a novelty lighter shaped like another banned item, like a gun.
Matches and lighters are the only source of a flame that you’ll be allowed to take on a cruise ship, but only for smoking cigarettes. And novelty lighters shouldn’t be shaped like a gun if you want to take them on board as they could frighten other passengers, so just take a normal one.
You aren’t allowed to take pool inflatables on your cruise. You might get away with a small one, but generally, they are banned – they take up too much room, and the pools on cruise ships are not enormous.
Some cruise lines may permit you to take inflatables with you if you only intend to use them when you head to the beach in a port, but this varies by cruise line, and you’ll need to check before you travel; otherwise, they could be confiscated.
Photo credit: Carnival Cruise Line
Balloons are usually banned too
Most cruise lines ban inflatables of all kinds, including balloons, although some cruise lines only specify pool inflatables – you would need to check with your cruise line. You may instead be able to buy balloons from the cruise line, and have them delivered to your room already inflated if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Helium balloons could cause havoc on a cruise ship if they were accidentally released as you brought them on-board, so it’s best to assume that they aren’t allowed. If you really want your stateroom to feel special, you may be able to order decorations – including pre-ordering them so they’re in your room waiting when you arrive.
Photo credit: Princess Cruises
Musical instruments
Most cruise lines won’t allow you to take a musical instrument on-board with you. Some cruise passengers have said they were allowed to take one on a Carnival cruise, but were told it could be confiscated if other passengers found it to be a nuisance. Instruments aren’t mentioned specifically in their policy.
Again, it’s best to leave the musical instruments at home unless you have a very special reason to bring them with you. Don’t assume that you can bring an acoustic guitar and set up a sing-a-long in a bar or by the poolside – most other cruisers won’t be impressed and you’ll very quickly have the crew asking you to stop, regardless of how good you are.
There are plenty of paid performers on a cruise ship, after all.
Golf clubs
While most sporting equipment is banned from cruise ships, golf clubs are generally allowed by most cruise lines as long as they are only taken ashore for organized golf excursions. You can’t take your own putter to use on the mini golf course on your ship!
Some cruise lines will be able to arrange club rental for you instead, so if you don’t want to take your golf bag with you for golfing excursions (and remember that most staterooms aren’t that big), then you do have the option to leave them at home.
Photo credit: Royal Caribbean
Metal detectors
Most cruise lines will not allow you to bring a metal detector onboard your cruise, although some don’t mention it in their policy, and you may need to check. You certainly can’t turn one on while onboard, as the entire structure is made from metal, including stateroom walls.
If you only wanted to use a metal detector on a beach during a port day then a cruise line may allow you to bring it onto your cruise ship, but they may turn you down. Definitely check in advance, don’t leave it to chance for embarkation day.
Candles
You aren’t allowed to take candles onto a cruise ship with you. Any kind of naked flame or fire hazard is banned from staterooms. The only exception would be matches or lighters if they are to be used for smoking.
Electric tea light candles may be permitted if they are battery-powered, but they probably don’t provide the ambience you were looking for. If you do book a cruise where you have a bathtub, you may have to rely on just music to set the mood for your relaxing soak.
Seashells
Whether you can bring seashells back onto your cruise ship after a day in port is at the discretion of the ship’s crew. Carnival is the only cruise line to mention it in their policy, saying they are allowed if they are clean, dry and free from living organisms.
Remember that seashells are often used as homes by beach creatures, and even if they are just filled with sand they may have organisms inside them. If you want to bring a seashell onto the ship, clean it out properly first, and make sure it’s dry. You should be OK, but be prepared that some cruise lines may still confiscate it.
Handcuffs & restraints
You aren’t allowed to take any kind of restraints onto a cruise ship with you, including handcuffs and leg cuffs. They are mentioned in most cruise line’s policies as specifically banned items.
This will still include ‘fluffy’ handcuffs and those clearly designed to be used by consenting adults in the bedroom. Unfortunately, if you enjoy using handcuffs with your partner, you won’t be able to do so on a cruise ship. And you will have them confiscated by port security staff, which may or may not be embarrassing for you. Either way, leave them at home.
Pepper spray
Despite being designed for self-defence, you are not allowed to bring pepper spray or any similar chemical products with you on a cruise ship. Pepper spray or mace is normally one of the named items that makes it onto most prohibited items lists for cruise lines.
Unusually specific items banned by cruise lines
Most cruise lines have very similar lists when it comes to prohibited items, but there are a couple of unusual items I’ve spotted that I thought were worth highlighting, just because of how oddly specific they are.
A number of cruise lines specify that you can’t take any form of wheeled transport on-board, including skateboards, bicycles and hoverboards. It’s understandable, since if the deck was slick you could easily charge too fast toward a railing. But Carnival is the only cruise line I’ve seen to make particular mention of heelies – children’s trainers with wheels inside the sole. They are also banned.
Similarly, there is a blanket ban on electricals that generate heat – things like hot plates. But Disney Cruise Line includes rice cookers in their list. That policy will be the same across all cruise lines, but has Disney seen a number of passengers trying to bring rice cookers on-board?
Finally, Norwegian Cruise Line has a very specific entry on its list of banned items – the Samsung Note 7. This was the oversized phone/small tablet released in 2016 which had serious battery issues, often causing it to explode, before the model was withdrawn from sale. If you have one, don’t try to take it on an NCL cruise. In fact, you probably shouldn’t use it anyway.
Final thoughts
Each cruise line will have a policy detailing the things that guests are not permitted to bring on cruise ships. As well as the items mentioned in this guide, this will include obviously dangerous things like weapons, illegal substances and chemicals.
So if you want to know what are prohibited items on P&O cruises, or what’s banned with MSC or Princess, it’s best to check their individual policies, otherwise you might end up having an awkward time at check-in.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Royal Caribbean suite perks depend on which ship you sail. On the 14 Icon, Oasis and Quantum class ships, suites fall into Royal Suite Class, a three-tier system (Sea, Sky and Star Class) where Star Class adds a Royal Genie, a drinks package, Wi-Fi, gratuities and most specialty dining. On the older Freedom, Voyager, Radiance and Vision class ships, the traditional Suites program still applies, with a lighter set of perks for junior suites and lounge access from Grand Suites up.
This guide, updated for November 2026, breaks down exactly what each tier includes, which ships use which system, the recent changes that affect bookings this year, and how to judge whether a suite is worth the extra money for your trip.
Two systems: Royal Suite Class vs the Suites program
Royal Caribbean has not unified its suite benefits across the whole fleet. Instead, it runs two parallel programs:
Royal Suite Class on the newest and largest ships. Benefits are grouped by tier (Sea, Sky, Star), and the tier is set by the suite category you book, not just the word “suite” in its name.
The Suites program on the remaining ships. Benefits are grouped by suite type: junior suites, Grand Suites and Owner’s Suites, and Royal and Villa Suites.
The practical upshot is that a “Grand Suite” on Liberty of the Seas and a “Grand Suite” on Wonder of the Seas do not come with identical perks, so always check which program your ship uses before comparing prices.
Which ships have Royal Suite Class?
Ship class
Ships
Suite system
Icon class
Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas
Royal Suite Class
Oasis class
Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder and Utopia of the Seas
Royal Suite Class
Quantum class
Quantum, Anthem, Ovation, Odyssey and Spectrum of the Seas
Royal Suite Class
Freedom, Voyager, Radiance and Vision class
For example Freedom, Liberty, Independence, Navigator, Mariner, Radiance and Enchantment of the Seas
Suites program
Legend of the Seas, the third Icon class ship, joined the fleet in July 2026 with a Mediterranean season before moving to Fort Lauderdale. Freedom class ships such as Independence of the Seas are not part of Royal Suite Class, so their suite guests follow the Suites program described further down.
Royal Suite Class tiers explained
Royal Suite Class is where the headline Royal Caribbean suite perks live. Here is what each tier offers, based on Royal Caribbean’s own benefits list.
Sea Class (junior suites)
Sea Class covers most junior suites and, from May 2026, Surfside Family Suites on Icon class ships. It is the entry tier and the least changed from a standard balcony cabin:
Dedicated check-in line and priority boarding
Dinner at Coastal Kitchen when available (reservation required, drinks extra)
Bathrobes, a pillow-top mattress and upgraded linens, luxury bathroom amenities and a Lavazza espresso machine
Sea Class does not include suite lounge access, concierge service, Wi-Fi or prepaid gratuities. Note that daily gratuities for suite guests are charged at a higher rate than standard cabins ($21 per person per day versus $18.50, as of the latest increase).
Sky Class (Grand Suites, Owner’s Suites, AquaTheater and Crown Loft suites)
Sky Class is the middle tier and the point where a suite starts to feel like a different cruise:
Suite concierge service
All-day Coastal Kitchen access for breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner reservations required)
Suite lounge access with evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails
Suite sun deck access, such as The Grove on Icon class ships
Flexible boarding, priority departure and priority dining reservations
Reserved seating at select entertainment venues
VOOM internet for one device per guest (not for Sky Junior or Sunset Junior Suites)
Star Class (Royal Loft, Ultimate Family, Owner’s Loft, Villa and larger suites)
Royal Caribbean Star Class perks turn the cruise into something close to all-inclusive. On top of everything in Sky Class, Star Class guests get:
A dedicated Royal Genie who handles reservations, requests and surprises throughout the voyage
The Deluxe Beverage Package for guests 21 and over (Refreshment Package for younger guests)
Complimentary dining at most specialty restaurants, with discounted cover charges at some experiential venues
Prepaid gratuities for dining, stateroom and housekeeping staff (Genie and concierge can be tipped separately)
VOOM Wi-Fi powered by Starlink for one device per guest
Expedited boarding, the best seats in select shows and priority entry to many activities
Complimentary minibar with soft drinks and water, plus complimentary laundry and pressing
A few items stay extra even in Star Class, including Signature Cuts at Chops Grille, the Celebration Table and Starbucks food.
Larger suites unlock lounge access, concierge help and, at the top tier, a personal Genie. Photo: Mike Kw on Pexels
Royal Caribbean suite perks comparison table
This table compares the three Royal Suite Class tiers with the highest tier of the older Suites program, so you can see the gaps at a glance.
Perk
Sea Class
Sky Class
Star Class
Suites program (Grand and up)
Priority boarding
Yes
Yes (flexible arrival)
Yes (expedited)
Yes
Coastal Kitchen
Dinner only
All day
All day
Only on ships that have one
Suite lounge
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Concierge
No
Yes
Yes, plus Royal Genie
Yes
Wi-Fi
No
Yes (most suites)
Yes
No
Drinks package
No
No
Deluxe Beverage Package
No
Specialty dining
No
No
Most venues included
No
Gratuities included
No
No
Yes
No
Reserved show seating
No
Select venues
Best seats
Reserved theater section
Royal Caribbean junior suite perks on older ships
If you are sailing a Freedom, Voyager, Radiance or Vision class ship, the Suites program decides your benefits. Royal Caribbean junior suite perks here are modest: a bathrobe for onboard use, luxury bathroom amenities, a Lavazza espresso machine and priority boarding. There is no lounge or concierge access at this level.
Grand Suites, Owner’s Suites and Ocean View or Panoramic suites without balconies step up considerably:
Concierge service and concierge club or suite lounge access with evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails
Priority departure, plus priority dining, spa and shore excursion bookings
Private breakfast seating on ships without Coastal Kitchen, plus a departure breakfast
Reserved theater seating, VIP pool deck seating (Voyager class and above) and priority tendering
Complimentary 24-hour room service with main dining menu options in-suite
A welcome water and fruit amenity and pressing on the first formal night
Royal Suites and Villa Suites add an officer escort from the terminal and a welcome bottle of Champagne. Royal Caribbean notes that benefits can vary by ship and sailing. For a broader look at how a junior suite compares with smaller cabin types, see our explainer on the difference between a suite, mini-suite and balcony cabin.
What changed in 2025 and 2026
Several updates matter if you booked a while ago or are comparing older reviews:
Surfside Family Suites downgraded (May 2026). On Icon class ships, these family suites moved from Sky Class to Sea Class for sailings from May 2, 2026. They lost lounge access, concierge, complimentary internet and breakfast and lunch at Coastal Kitchen.
Sunset Junior Suites upgraded. These aft-facing junior suites moved up to Sky Class, gaining all-day Coastal Kitchen and concierge access, though not free Wi-Fi.
Sky Junior Suites lost Wi-Fi. On Icon, Spectrum and Utopia of the Seas, complimentary internet was removed to bring these suites in line with the rest of the fleet.
Coastal Kitchen guest passes (2026). Sky Class guests can now bring up to two non-suite guests per meal and Star Class guests up to four, for a per-person fee (reported as $15 for breakfast, $20 for lunch and $25 for dinner, plus gratuity).
Drinks package rule tightened (August 2025). Royal Caribbean stopped making exceptions to the rule that all adults in a cabin must buy the Deluxe Beverage Package if one does. Star Class guests are unaffected because the package is included.
The takeaway: check the current tier for your exact suite category and sail date rather than relying on what a friend received a year or two ago.
Evening lounge access starts at Sky Class on the newer ships. Photo: Skills Media on Pexels
Royal Suite Class vs The Key
If what you really want is shorter lines and a quieter lunch, Royal Caribbean’s paid add-on The Key offers priority boarding, a reserved lunch on embarkation day, Wi-Fi and line-skipping on some activities, without the cost of a suite. It does not give you a lounge, concierge or a bigger cabin. We compare the two in detail in The Key vs suite perks, and you can weigh the add-on on its own in our guide to whether The Key is worth it. As a rough rule, The Key can make sense in place of a Sea Class junior suite, but it is no substitute for Sky or Star Class.
Is a Royal Caribbean suite worth it?
It depends heavily on the tier. A simple way to decide:
Sea Class or older-ship junior suite: mostly about space. You get a bigger cabin and balcony, a better bed and priority boarding. Worth it if the room itself matters to you; otherwise a balcony plus The Key may be better value.
Sky Class or Grand Suite and up: the lounge, concierge and all-day Coastal Kitchen change the daily rhythm of the cruise. Worth it for travelers who value calm spaces on busy mega-ships.
Star Class: do the maths. Add up what you would otherwise pay for a Deluxe Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, gratuities and two or three specialty dinners per person. On a seven-night sailing, those extras alone can cost a couple in the region of $2,000 or more, which narrows the price gap noticeably.
One point many guides miss: the tier is tied to the category code, not the marketing name, so two similar-sounding suites on the same ship can sit in different tiers. Before paying a deposit, ask your travel advisor or check the category on Royal Caribbean’s site to confirm whether it is Sea, Sky or Star Class. It is also worth watching for suite promotions in upcoming cruise deals, since suite fares often swing by thousands of dollars between booking windows.
If you are narrowing down a specific ship, our Icon of the Seas suites guide walks through each category on the line’s flagship class.
If you are thinking of upgrading, our guide to Oasis of the Seas suites compares every suite category, size and perk tier on the ship.
What are the perks of booking a suite on Royal Caribbean?
It depends on the ship and tier. Junior suites mainly add space, priority boarding and nicer amenities. Grand Suites and Sky Class add lounge, concierge and (on newer ships) all-day Coastal Kitchen. Star Class adds a Royal Genie, drinks package, Wi-Fi, gratuities and most specialty dining.
What are the perks of a junior suite on Royal Caribbean?
On Royal Suite Class ships, junior suites are usually Sea Class: priority boarding, dinner at Coastal Kitchen, upgraded bedding, bathrobes and an espresso machine. On older ships, they get a bathrobe, luxury amenities, an espresso machine and priority boarding. Sunset Junior Suites are an exception and sit in Sky Class.
Does Royal Caribbean Star Class include drinks and gratuities?
Yes. Star Class includes the Deluxe Beverage Package for guests 21 and over, prepaid gratuities for dining and stateroom staff, VOOM Wi-Fi and most specialty dining. Your Royal Genie and concierge can be tipped separately at your discretion.
What are the suite perks on Independence of the Seas?
Independence of the Seas is a Freedom class ship, so it uses the Suites program rather than Royal Suite Class. Junior suites get priority boarding and in-room extras, while Grand Suites and above add concierge lounge access, priority bookings, reserved theater seating and more.
Carnival card colors show your loyalty status. Since Carnival Rewards replaced the VIFP Club on September 1, 2026, Sail & Sign cards come in four tier colours: Red (everyone who enrols), Gold (10,000 Status Qualifying Stars), Platinum (50,000 Stars) and Diamond (100,000 Stars). If you hold an older card, Blue meant a first Carnival cruise. Red, Gold, Platinum and Diamond were based on VIFP points, which you earned at one point per day sailed.
The colour is only part of the change. The card now has a vertical layout and a “Days Sailed” badge, and some ships have started adding stickers. This guide covers what each colour means in late 2026, how to qualify for it, what perks come with it, and how the old VIFP colours carry over.
Carnival card colors at a glance (Carnival Rewards, 2026)
The table below shows the current Carnival Rewards tiers. Status is earned with Status Qualifying Stars. You get 3 Stars for every eligible dollar you spend with Carnival, including cruise fare and gratuities. Casino play adds Stars too, at 1 Star per casino point. Taxes, port fees, air through Fly2Fun and anything paid for with points or free credits do not count.
Card colour / tier
How to qualify
Approx. spend (no casino or credit card)
Key perks
Red
Enrol in Carnival Rewards (free)
$0
Earn and redeem points, members-only offers, a free 1.5-litre bottle of water each sailing, Red Sail & Sign card
Gold
10,000 Stars in a qualifying window
About $3,333
Red perks plus a dedicated support line, one free drink on sailings of 5+ days, Gold card
Platinum
50,000 Stars
About $16,667
Gold perks plus early online check-in, priority check-in, boarding and debarkation, priority spa and Guest Services access, preferred dining times, a second free drink, limited free wash-and-fold laundry, a collectible pin each sailing, Platinum card
Diamond
100,000 Stars
About $33,333
Platinum perks plus guaranteed early or late main dining time, an extra laundry bag, retail concierge, an invitation to a captain’s event, a Diamond pin, Diamond card
Perk details and redemption values can change, so check your account on the official Carnival Rewards site before you sail. For a full breakdown of points, Stars, redemptions and the co-branded Mastercard, see our complete guide to the Carnival Rewards loyalty program. This page covers only the cards themselves.
How long a card colour lasts
Status runs in two-year cycles. You earn Stars during a Status Qualifying Window and keep the status you reach for the rest of that window and the following two-year window. The first window runs from September 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028. Status earned in that window lasts until at least December 31, 2030. If you don’t requalify, your card drops back down a level.
What the new Carnival Sail & Sign card looks like
The Carnival Sail & Sign card colours carried over from VIFP, but the design changed with the new program. The main differences:
Vertical layout. The card is now portrait rather than landscape, so it reads properly when worn on a lanyard.
Carnival Rewards branding replaces the VIFP logo.
A “Carnival Days Sailed” badge. A circular emblem in the lower right corner shows your lifetime days at sea with Carnival.
The same practical details as before: your name, ship, sailing date, muster station, guest number, and dining time and table.
Days Sailed decides milestones, which are separate from your tier colour. Enrolled members get 5,000 points at 50 days, 10,000 points at 100 days and another 10,000 points for every 100 days after that, along with commemorative coins and a milestone card. Under VIFP, milestones were counted in cruises (25, 50, 75 and so on) and came with onboard credit worth a share of the fare. That credit has been replaced by points.
One quirk worth knowing: since the redesign, some guests have posted photos of cards whose print and finish faded within days. Reports came from several ships and covered every tier, and the cause hasn’t been confirmed. Carnival’s brand ambassador suggested asking Guest Services for a replacement, which they will reprint.
Your Sail and Sign card goes everywhere with you, from the pool deck to the bar. Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels
Old Carnival VIFP colors explained (legacy cards)
Many cruisers still have VIFP cards from earlier sailings, and plenty of online guides still describe the old system. Under the VIFP Club, you earned one point per day sailed, and Carnival card colours worked like this:
Legacy VIFP colour
VIFP points
What happens to it now
Blue
First Carnival sailing
Tier retired. Blue members who enrol start at Red.
Red
2nd sailing to 24 points
Kept as Red until December 31, 2028 if you opted in
Gold
25 to 74
Kept as Gold until December 31, 2028 if you opted in
Platinum (silver-toned card)
75 to 199
Kept until December 31, 2028, plus a 10,000-Star boost at the start of each new cycle so you stay at least Gold
Diamond (white-toned card)
200+
Lifetime Diamond in Carnival Rewards
These protections apply only to members who opted in to Carnival Rewards. Carnival asked VIFP members to enrol before the August 31, 2026 cut-off, and reports say guests who didn’t opt in will not have their VIFP status or days sailed carried over. If your new card shows a lower colour than you expected, contact Carnival before your next sailing rather than at the pier.
Long-time Diamond members should note that the new Diamond tier is not identical to the old one. Laundry is no longer unlimited, and reports say the free cabin upgrade and complimentary specialty meal are gone. The card colour is the same, but the perks are different.
What you use your Sail & Sign card for
The colour matters less than what the card does. Your Sail & Sign card is:
Your cabin key. In most cases you’ll find the cards waiting in the holder by your cabin door when you board.
Your onboard wallet. Drinks, specialty dining, spa treatments and shop purchases are charged to the credit card or cash deposit linked to your account.
Your ID at the gangway. It’s scanned every time you leave or re-board the ship in port, alongside your photo ID.
Your record. Your muster station and dining details are printed on it, and the onboard systems link it to your photo and your age.
Carnival has not moved to a wearable like some other lines. In 2024 its brand ambassador asked followers whether they’d want wristbands, but no change has been announced. The HUB app works alongside the card and doesn’t replace it.
Bars scan your card for every drink, which is how they check age and drink packages. Photo: Susheel Parihar on Pexels
Other markings and stickers on Carnival cards
Not everything on a Carnival card relates to loyalty status. Here are some other things you might notice:
Prepaid gratuities sticker
In late October 2026, guests began reporting a light blue round sticker reading “Crew love” and “I pre-paid my gratuities” in the corner of their cards. It was first seen on a Carnival Panorama sailing. Carnival describes it as part of a pilot to show crew which guests have prepaid tips, so you may not see it on every ship yet. If you’re deciding whether to prepay, see our breakdown of Carnival prepaid gratuities and whether they’re worth it.
Milestone cards
When you reach a Days Sailed milestone (50 days, then every 100 days), you get a special milestone card for that sailing instead of your usual tier colour.
Drink packages and under-21 guests
There isn’t a separate card colour for CHEERS! drink package holders or guests under 21. When a bartender scans your card, the system shows your photo, age and any package on your account. This is how Carnival enforces the drinking age of 21 on US sailings and limits CHEERS! drinks to the package holder. Children get their own cards too, and parents can set or limit their charging privileges at Guest Services.
Faster to the Fun and suite guests
Faster to the Fun is a paid add-on for priority check-in, boarding, cabin access and debarkation. Carnival suite guests get similar priority perks with their booking. These perks are attached to your reservation rather than to a special card colour, so your card still shows your loyalty tier. If priority boarding is what you’re after, our guide to Carnival suite perks and whether they’re worth paying more for compares the options.
Lost or damaged card: what to do
Go to Guest Services right away. They’ll deactivate the lost card and print a new one, so nobody else can charge to your account or open your cabin.
Check your charges in the HUB app afterwards to make sure nothing unexpected appears.
Faded or peeling card? Ask for a reprint. It’s free and only takes a few minutes.
Keep it away from your phone. Storing the card against a phone with a magnetic case or wallet can stop it opening your door. A lanyard or separate card sleeve helps.
Is chasing a higher card colour worth it?
For most people sailing once or twice a year, Red or Gold is realistic and the perks are small. Platinum and Diamond now depend on spending rather than days at sea. Without the casino or the co-branded credit card, Platinum takes about $16,700 of qualifying spending in two years. That’s very achievable for families who book balcony cabins or suites several times a year, and much harder for budget cruisers. Spend on what you’d enjoy anyway and treat any card upgrade as a bonus.
FAQs
What do Carnival cruise card colors mean?
The colour of your Sail & Sign card shows your Carnival loyalty status. Since Carnival Rewards launched on September 1, 2026, Red is the entry tier, Gold starts at 10,000 Status Qualifying Stars, Platinum at 50,000 and Diamond at 100,000. Older cards also came in Blue, which marked a first Carnival cruise under the retired VIFP Club.
What is the difference between the blue and red Carnival cards?
Under the old VIFP Club, Blue meant your first Carnival cruise and Red meant your second cruise up to 24 VIFP points. Carnival Rewards has dropped the Blue tier, so anyone who enrols now starts at Red. The perks at both levels are modest, such as members-only offers and a free bottle of water each sailing.
How do you get a Platinum Carnival card?
Under Carnival Rewards you need 50,000 Status Qualifying Stars within a two-year qualifying window. You earn 3 Stars per eligible dollar spent with Carnival, so that works out at roughly $16,700 of qualifying spending, or less if you play in the casino or use the Carnival Rewards Mastercard. If you held VIFP Platinum on August 31, 2026 and opted in, you keep Platinum until December 31, 2028.
What does the number on the new Carnival card mean?
The round badge in the lower corner of the redesigned vertical card shows your lifetime Carnival Days Sailed. It counts towards milestone rewards: 5,000 points at 50 days, then 10,000 points at 100 days and at every further 100 days.
What happens if you lose your Sail & Sign card?
Go to Guest Services straight away. They will deactivate the old card and print a new one, so nobody else can charge to your account or open your cabin. Bring photo ID if you can.
A Royal Caribbean Grand Suite is the line’s mid-level suite: noticeably bigger than a Junior Suite, with a separate sitting area, a larger balcony and a proper suite-style bathroom, plus the full set of core suite perks such as concierge service and Suite Lounge access. On Oasis, Quantum and Icon Class ships it sits in the Sky Class tier of Royal Suite Class, which adds all-day Coastal Kitchen dining and free VOOM Wi-Fi. It does not include the drinks package, gratuities or butler service, which are reserved for Star Class.
This guide focuses on the Grand Suite specifically: what you get, how big it is, how it compares with the Junior Suite and Owner’s Suite, and whether the extra cost makes sense. If you want the bigger picture across every suite category, see our full guide to Royal Caribbean suite perks and the Royal Suite Class tiers.
What is a Royal Caribbean Grand Suite?
Royal Caribbean’s suites run from the Junior Suite at the entry level up to multi-storey lofts and the Ultimate Family Suite. The Grand Suite sits in the middle. It is usually the cheapest way to get the “real” suite experience, because it is the first category that includes concierge service, the Suite Lounge (or Concierge Club on older ships) and priority departure, none of which come with a Junior Suite.
Most ships offer a one-bedroom Grand Suite, and some also have a two-bedroom Grand Suite aimed at families or two couples travelling together. On select ships you will also see Grand Panoramic variants with wraparound views.
Grand Suite size and layout
Exact dimensions vary by ship, so always check the deck plan for your sailing. As a rough guide:
One-bedroom Grand Suite: generally around 350 to 430 square feet inside, with a balcony of roughly 100 square feet or more. On Icon of the Seas, for example, the Grand Suite is listed at 431 square feet with a 108-square-foot balcony and sleeps four.
Two-bedroom Grand Suite: a larger layout with a second bedroom, useful for families who want a door between parents and kids.
Grand Panoramic Suites: found on select ships, these are the largest Grand variants. Cruise Critic lists them at up to 914 square feet, some with an outdoor hot tub.
Inside a standard one-bedroom Grand Suite you typically get a king bed (which can usually split into twins), a living area with a sofa bed, a dining or coffee table, a bathroom with a tub and often double sinks, a Lavazza espresso machine, and more storage than a balcony cabin. One thing to know: in many one-bedroom Grand Suites the bedroom and living area are separated by a curtain rather than a door. If a real door matters to you, look at the two-bedroom version or an Owner’s Suite.
Which ships have Grand Suites?
Grand Suites are available across the Royal Caribbean fleet, but the perks you receive depend on the ship class:
Royal Suite Class ships (Oasis, Quantum and Icon Class): Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder and Utopia of the Seas; Quantum, Anthem, Ovation, Spectrum and Odyssey of the Seas; and Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas. Here a Grand Suite falls into Sky Class.
Other ships (Freedom, Voyager, Radiance and Vision Class): these use Royal Caribbean’s classic suite benefits programme. The Grand Suite still gets lounge access and concierge, but not the newer Sky Class extras such as Coastal Kitchen or included Wi-Fi.
If you want the most from a Grand Suite booking, a Royal Suite Class ship is the safer bet.
A private balcony is one of the big upgrades in a Grand Suite. Photo: Daniel Dolidze on Pexels
Royal Caribbean Grand Suite perks in 2026
Here is what Royal Caribbean Grand Suite guests can expect, based on Royal Caribbean’s own suite pages at the time of writing. Benefits can vary by ship and sailing, so check your booking details.
Sky Class Grand Suite perks (Oasis, Quantum and Icon Class)
Dedicated check-in line, priority boarding and priority departure
Concierge service to help with dining, shows and shore excursion bookings
Coastal Kitchen access for breakfast, lunch and dinner (Sea Class Junior Suites only get dinner)
Suite Lounge access, including evening drinks and snacks
Complimentary VOOM high-speed internet
Priority dining reservations and reserved seating at select entertainment venues
Welcome amenity, bathrobes, luxury bathroom products and a Lavazza espresso machine
Access to exclusive signature activities, which vary by ship
Classic Grand Suite perks (Freedom, Voyager, Radiance and Vision Class)
Priority boarding and departure, pillowtop mattress and luxury bath amenities
Concierge service and Concierge Club or Suite Lounge access with evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails
Priority dining, spa and shore excursion bookings, plus priority tendering where applicable
VIP pool deck seating (Voyager Class and above) and reserved theatre seating where available
Main dining room menu for in-suite dining, private breakfast seating on ships without Coastal Kitchen, and a departure breakfast
Complimentary pressing on the first formal night
What a Grand Suite does not include
This is where many first-time suite guests get caught out. A Grand Suite does not include the Deluxe Beverage Package, prepaid gratuities, free specialty dining or a Royal Genie butler. Those belong to Star Class suites such as the Royal Loft, Owner’s Loft, Star Loft and Ultimate Family Suite. You will still want to budget for drinks and tips, or compare the cost with booking The Key versus a suite if priority access is your main goal.
Royal Caribbean Grand Suite vs Junior Suite vs Owner’s Suite
The Grand Suite is easiest to judge side by side with the categories just below and above it. The table below uses Royal Suite Class ships, where most people book suites; sizes are Icon of the Seas figures as an example.
Feature
Junior Suite
Grand Suite
Owner’s Suite
Royal Suite Class tier
Sea (some Icon Class Junior Suites are Sky)
Sky
Sky
Example size (Icon)
322 sq ft + 80 sq ft balcony
431 sq ft + 108 sq ft balcony
658 sq ft + 190 sq ft balcony
Suite Lounge and concierge
No (Sea tier)
Yes
Yes
Coastal Kitchen
Dinner only
All meals
All meals
Free VOOM Wi-Fi
No (Sea tier)
Yes
Yes
Drinks package and gratuities
No
No
No
Best for
More space on a budget
Full suite perks at the lowest Sky price
Extra space, often a separate bedroom
Grand Suite vs Junior Suite
The jump from Junior Suite to Grand Suite is mostly about perks, not just square footage. A Junior Suite gives you a bigger room, a tub and priority boarding, but on a Sea Class sailing you do not get the lounge, the concierge or all-day Coastal Kitchen. If you would use those every day, the Grand Suite usually feels like a different holiday. If you mainly want a bit more room and you spend most of the day out on the ship, a Junior Suite is often the smarter buy.
Grand Suite vs Owner’s Suite
On Royal Suite Class ships, the Grand Suite and Owner’s Suite share the same Sky Class perks. What you pay for with an Owner’s Suite is space: a larger living area, a bigger balcony and, on many ships, a more clearly separated bedroom. If the perks are what you want, the Grand Suite gets you the same benefits for less.
Suite Lounge access is a key Grand Suite perk. Photo: RDNE Stock project on Pexels
How much does a Royal Caribbean Grand Suite cost?
Prices change constantly with ship, itinerary, season and demand, so treat any figure as a snapshot. As one example, Royal Caribbean Blog compared four May 2026 sailings on Oasis of the Seas for two guests: Junior Suites ranged from about $2,700 to $3,000, while Grand Suites ran from about $3,500 to $4,200. That is a premium of roughly $800 to $1,200 per cabin on those dates. Suite guarantee fares on the same sailings were cheaper still, but these usually land you in a Junior Suite.
Shorter cruises can look pricier per night. The same publication reported paying just under $4,000 including gratuities for a three-night Grand Suite stay for two on Allure of the Seas. Check current pricing for your own dates before deciding.
A simple way to work out if the premium pays back
Rather than comparing the fare alone, add up what you would otherwise spend on the things the Grand Suite includes:
Wi-Fi: look up the VOOM price for your sailing in the Cruise Planner and multiply by the number of devices you would buy it for.
Specialty dining: if all-day Coastal Kitchen access means you would skip one or two paid restaurant meals, count those.
Evening drinks: the Suite Lounge serves drinks and snacks each evening, which can trim your bar bill even without a drinks package.
Time: priority boarding, departure and reserved show seating have no price tag, but on a busy Oasis or Icon Class ship they make the day noticeably smoother.
If those items get you close to the price difference, the Grand Suite is good value. If you would not use them, the money is better spent elsewhere. For ideas on cutting the cost, see our guide to how people get cruise suites without paying full price.
Is a Royal Caribbean Grand Suite worth it?
A Grand Suite tends to be worth it if:
You are sailing on an Oasis, Quantum or Icon Class ship, where Sky Class perks are strongest
You would use the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen most days
You are a family of three or four who need the extra space, or two couples considering a two-bedroom Grand Suite
You value quieter dining and less queuing on a very large ship
It is probably not worth it if you are on a shorter cruise and will barely be in the room, if you mainly want a drinks package (that is a Star Class perk), or if a Junior Suite already gives you enough space.
If a Grand Suite is beyond the budget, a Royal Caribbean Junior Suite is the entry-level suite option worth comparing.
FAQs
What does a Grand Suite get you on Royal Caribbean?
A larger suite with a sitting area and bigger balcony, plus priority boarding and departure, concierge service, Suite Lounge access and priority bookings. On Oasis, Quantum and Icon Class ships it is Sky Class, which adds all-day Coastal Kitchen and free VOOM Wi-Fi.
How much does a Grand Suite cost on Royal Caribbean?
It varies widely by ship and date. On some May 2026 Oasis of the Seas sailings, Grand Suites cost roughly $3,500 to $4,200 for two, about $800 to $1,200 more than a Junior Suite. Check live pricing for your sailing.
What is the difference between an Owner’s Suite and a Grand Suite on Royal Caribbean?
On Royal Suite Class ships both are Sky Class, so the perks are the same. The Owner’s Suite is larger, with more living space, a bigger balcony and often a more separate bedroom.
Does a Royal Caribbean Grand Suite include a drinks package?
No. The Deluxe Beverage Package, included gratuities and specialty dining are Star Class perks. Grand Suite guests do get evening drinks and snacks in the Suite Lounge.
Is a Grand Suite better than a Junior Suite?
It is more spacious and includes the lounge, concierge and all-day Coastal Kitchen that a Sea Class Junior Suite lacks. Whether it is better value depends on how much you would use those perks.
Whether you’re trying to work out if a Princess Cruises drinks package is worth the cost, or you’re just budgeting for how much money you’ll need for your cruise, knowing the drinks prices on your Princess cruise is definitely useful.
You want to be able to enjoy your holiday without thinking about the cost of each drink you order, and it’s also good to know if your favourite drinks are served on the ship. If not, you can work out which new drinks you want to try during your cruise.
Here’s a look at the different drinks available on a Princess cruise, and their prices.
This is the latest Princess Cruises drink menu from the Pool Bar, which gives you a good idea of the latest Princess drinks prices:
Princess Cruises beer menu
Enjoy a cold, refreshing beer from the list of options served on a Princess cruise.
Most of the beers served are lagers, including primarily American brands such as Budweiser, Coors and Miller. But there are a couple of ales available too, along with perennial Irish favourite Guinness.
There are a huge number of cocktails served on a typical Princess cruise – you’ll certainly need more than one cruise to be able to try them all. From Martinis to Cosmopolitans and Manhattans to Margaritas, you’ll love the range of options to sip while sitting by the poolside.
There are many spirits and liqueurs available on your Princess cruise, so whether you want a shot of tequila to liven up your night, or a whiskey to help you unwind, you won’t be missing out while at sea.
There’s an extensive menu of wines available for your Princess cruise. You can order by the bottle or by the glass, including a number of reds, whites, sparkling wines, Prosecco options and Champagne when you’re in the mood to celebrate. Ideal for dinner, or just as a drink in your stateroom before the night gets going.
Enjoy these non-alcoholic cocktails and sodas when you want something fun and flavourful without the hangover spoiling your cruise the morning after.
From Italian classics to unique flavours, there are some wonderful coffees that you can try as part of your Princess cruise. If you need a shot of Espresso to perk you up in the morning, that’s an option (including doubles), or why not try something different like a Butter Pecan or Honey Lavender latte?
This is an older coffee menu so the prices will have increased, but it gives you an idea of the variety of drinks available:
When you want a drink that’s a little more soothing, take your pick from a classic hot chocolate or one of the range of teas served on a Princess cruise, including fruit teas, breakfast teas and chamomile.
On your room service menu, there are a number of other products you can order, as well as services such as laundry collections or turndown services. Everything here is complimentary, so just use your room service menu to order what you need.
Final word
The drinks menu on a Princess cruise is pretty extensive, with a selection of the most popular brands from around the world.
Find your favourites and make a note of the prices – this’ll help you decide whether you want to pay for a beverage package, whether you would be better off with the Princess Premier or Princess Plus package, or if you’ll be better suited paying for each drink individually.
And remember that as well as what’s on the drink menus, Princess Cruises offers a selection of free drinks like tea, coffee, water and juice that you can get from the main dining room or buffet, amongst other locations.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Carnival Vista has suffered yet more engine problems following a summer of recurring issues, delaying its return to Port Canaveral by several hours.
The ship’s engine problem meant that she wasn’t able to reach top speed, and would therefore only be arriving back to Port Canaveral at 10 am on Sunday 13th October.
This was the day the cruise was meant to end, but an arrival time of 10 am is a significant delay, and means that some guests would’ve likely been unable to depart the ship until the afternoon.
This of course then has a knock-on effect on any guests with flights booked, and on the guests due to board the ship for the subsequent cruise.
Guests who had booked their airfare through the cruise line’s own FLY2FUN programme would’ve had adjustments made to their plans automatically.
But anyone flying on their own booking, who hadn’t left a lot of time to get to the airport, would’ve been required to make their own arrangements.
Carnival has confirmed that it is offering guests up to $200 per person to cover any costs incurred as a result of their changing travel plans.
Vista’s rough 2024 continues
Carnival Vista has had several issues with propulsion this year, with several sailings impacted over the summer due to the reduced speeds of the ship.
As they gradually worsened, the cruise line finally made the call to remove her from service in September for repairs.
She was only out of action for a week, with the cruise line assuring guests that everything was now resolved.
However, the issues have now struck again less than a month later.
It’s not clear yet whether it’s the same cause of the fault, or something new. All other systems, including those keeping guests safe such as navigation, are all working fine.
The ship has suffered propulsion issues several times in the past too, including in November 2016 not long after she first launched.
They struck again in June 2019 and May 2022 as well.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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