What’s Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise? A Complete Guide
One of the most common questions we hear from clients who are considering a cruise is: “What’s actually included in the cruise fare?”
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line offers an incredible amount of value, but like most cruises, not everything is included. Knowing what’s covered upfront—and what’s extra—can help you plan, budget, and enjoy your vacation without surprises.
Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-understand way.
What Is Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise Fare
When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, your base fare already includes far more than many first-time cruisers expect.
Your Stateroom
Your cruise fare includes your accommodations for the duration of your sailing. Whether you choose an interior stateroom, ocean view, balcony, or suite, your room is your home base at sea and includes daily housekeeping.
Complimentary Dining Options
Royal Caribbean includes at least 7 complimentary dining venues, depending on the ship. These typically include:
Main Dining Room
Windjammer Café (buffet)
Select casual eateries like cafés or quick-service spots
Menus rotate regularly, and there are plenty of options for different tastes and dietary needs.
Room Service (Continental Breakfast)
Continental breakfast room service is included at no additional cost. It’s a great option for slower mornings or port days when you want to ease into the day.
Included Beverages
Your cruise fare includes a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, such as:
Ice water
Coffee and tea
Lemonade
Select juices
These are available in dining venues throughout the ship.
World-Class Onboard Entertainment
Entertainment is one of Royal Caribbean’s standout features and is included in your cruise fare. Offerings vary by ship and may include:
Broadway-style shows
Ice skating shows
AquaTheater performances
Live music and entertainment throughout the ship
Pools, Hot Tubs & Outdoor Spaces
All guests can enjoy Royal Caribbean’s pools, hot tubs, and expansive outdoor deck areas—perfect for sea days and sunny afternoons.
Onboard Activities
Depending on the ship, your cruise may include access to exciting activities such as:
Waterslides
FlowRider® surf simulator
Zip line
Rock climbing wall
Laser tag
Bumper cars
Mini golf
Many of these experiences are included at no additional cost.
Fitness Center
The onboard fitness center is included and features cardio equipment, weight machines, and free weights. (Specialty fitness classes may be extra.)
Kids & Teen Programs
Royal Caribbean is extremely family-friendly. Included programs include:
Adventure Ocean® Kids Program (ages 3–12)
Teen Clubs for ages 13–17
These age-appropriate programs offer supervised activities, games, and social experiences at no additional charge.
Perfect Day at CocoCay (Select Experiences)
If your itinerary includes Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas, many experiences are included, such as:
Beach access
Complimentary food
Standard beach chairs
(Some premium experiences are extra—more on that below.)
Royal Caribbean App
The Royal Caribbean app is included and allows you to:
View daily schedules
Make dining and entertainment reservations
Message other guests in your travel party using the guest-to-guest chat feature
What Is Not Included in Your Royal Caribbean Cruise Fare
While Royal Caribbean includes a lot, there are some items that are not part of the base cruise fare.
Gratuities
Prepaid gratuities for crew members are not included in the base fare
Gratuities are also added to:
Purchased beverages
Specialty dining
Spa and salon services
Mini bar items
Prepaying gratuities before your cruise is an option many travelers choose for convenience.
Specialty Dining
Restaurants outside of the complimentary venues—such as steakhouses or themed dining experiences—are available for an additional fee.
Room Service (Beyond Continental Breakfast)
Royal Caribbean offers 24/7 room service, but meals outside of continental breakfast typically incur a service fee.
Beverages Beyond the Basics
The following are not included unless you purchase a beverage package:
Alcoholic beverages
Soda
Bottled water
Specialty coffees (such as espresso drinks)
Wi-Fi
Internet access is not included in the base fare. Royal Caribbean offers Wi-Fi packages that can be added before or during your cruise.
Specialty Experiences & Activities
Additional-cost experiences may include:
Culinary classes
Spa and salon treatments
Royal Escape Room
Shore excursions in ports of call
Thrill Waterpark and other premium experiences at Perfect Day at CocoCay
Royal Babies & Tots Nursery (ages 6–36 months)
Laundry services
Optional Add-Ons to Consider
Two items that can be added to your reservation—but are not automatically included—are:
Prepaid gratuities
Travel insurance
Both can provide peace of mind and help protect your investment.
Why Understanding What’s Included Matters
Cruising offers incredible value, but understanding what’s included—and what’s optional—helps you avoid surprises and plan a vacation that fits your travel style and budget.
This is also where working with a travel advisor truly shines. The Travel Advisors at Royal Treatment Travel® help their clients understand their options, decide which add-ons make sense for their vacation, and ensure they get the best overall value.
Considering a Royal Caribbean cruise and want help choosing the right ship, itinerary, and options? Royal Treatment Travel® would love to help! Contact your Travel Advisor or submit a quote request using the button below to get started.
