Everything is confirmed and secured — you're all set for an amazing getaway. Keep your booking details handy; you'll reference them at each step below.

Now's the perfect time to get every document in order — so there are zero surprises at the port.

• 1
  Valid PassportMust be valid at least 6 months beyond your return date. If yours is expiring, renew now — processing can take 10–13 weeks.
• 2
  Birth Certificate + Government Photo IDRequired for U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port).
• 3
  Visas (if applicable)Some itineraries and citizenships require a visa for certain ports. I'll flag anything specific to your sailing.
• 4
  Travel Insurance DocumentsKeep a digital and printed copy. Don't have insurance yet? Let me know — I can help.
• 5
  Royal Caribbean Booking ConfirmationAccess your booking any time at RoyalCaribbean.com under "My Cruises."

Your balance is typically due about 90 days before sailing (5–14 night sailings are a bit earlier; 1–4 night a bit later). I'll send you your exact due date — here's exactly how to pay.

How to make your payment

• 1
  Have your cruise reservation number readyYou'll need your Royal Caribbean reservation (booking) number to make a payment. It's on your confirmation email and in your account under "My Cruises."
• 2
  Pay securely on my payments pageAll payments are made through my secure payments page: polkadotsnwishestravel.com/payments. Enter your reservation number and follow the prompts.
• 3
  Questions? Reach out firstNot sure about your balance or due date? Message me before you pay and I'll walk you through it.

Pre-booking saves money and locks in the best tables. Prices are usually at their best 60–90 days out — this is the sweet spot. (For the full dining breakdown, see the deep-dive guide below.)

🍷 Drink packages

• ★
  Deluxe Beverage PackageUnlimited cocktails, wines by the glass, beers, sodas, juices, and specialty coffees — up to $14 per drink. The most popular pick.
• ★
  Refreshment PackageNon-alcoholic — mocktails, specialty coffees, teas, fresh juices, and bottled water. Great for non-drinkers.
• ★
  Classic Soda PackageUnlimited fountain sodas with a souvenir cup for the Freestyle machines. The budget-friendly pick for kids.

🍽️ Specialty dining

• ★
  Unlimited Dining PackageSpecialty restaurants every night at one set price — venues like Chops Grille, Giovanni's, and Hooked Seafood, depending on your ship.
• ★
  3-Night Dining PackageChoose any three specialty restaurants for a set price — a great way to mix it up.

Exploring each port is one of the best parts of cruising. Plan now, before the most popular tours sell out.

⚓ Your options

• 1
  Book Through Royal CaribbeanThe safest option — these are ship-guaranteed, so if your tour runs late, the ship waits for you. Browse under "Shore Excursions."
• 2
  Independent ToursThird-party operators often offer unique experiences at lower prices. Just leave plenty of buffer to get back before all-aboard.
• 3
  Explore on Your OwnSome ports are very walkable. I'm happy to share recommendations for each of yours.

💡 Kelsey's tips

• ✓Book early — swim-with-dolphins and similar tours sell out weeks ahead.
• ✓Check all-aboard time for each port and keep a 1–2 hour buffer.
• ✓Traveling with kids or seniors? Look for "easy" or "leisure-paced" tours.
• ✓Bring small-denomination local cash for tips and market purchases.

Completing check-in early means faster boarding, your SetSail Pass ready to go, and less time in line at the terminal.

• 1
  Log In to Royal CaribbeanUse RoyalCaribbean.com or the app, signing in with the email tied to your booking.
• 2
  Go to "Check In"Under "My Cruises," find your sailing and click "Online Check-In."
• 3
  Complete Passenger InfoEnter each guest's full legal name (as on their ID/passport), date of birth, nationality, and passport or ID details.
• 4
  Upload a PhotoEach guest needs a clear, recent headshot — no sunglasses or hats — for facial-recognition boarding.
• 5
  Add a Credit Card on FileThis sets up your SeaPass onboard account for any purchases.
• 6
  Select Your Arrival TimeEarlier slots go fast, so check in as soon as possible.
• 7
  Download Your SetSail PassSave it to your phone or print it — this is your boarding document!

Let's connect for a quick check-in so every detail is in place and you feel completely prepared and excited.

📋 What we'll cover

• ✓Document Review — confirm passports, IDs, and required documents are ready.
• ✓Check-In Status — make sure your SetSail Pass is downloaded and arrival window selected.
• ✓Dining & Activities — review any specialty dining or onboard experiences you've booked.
• ✓Excursion Confirmation — go over your plans for each port stop.
• ✓Port Arrival & Logistics — parking, transportation, and terminal arrival tips.
• ✓Last-Minute Questions — your chance to ask anything. No question is too small.

One week to go — time to pack smart. Here's how to handle luggage, tags, dress codes, and what to leave at home.

🏷️ Luggage tags

• 1
  Print your tags after check-inOnce online check-in is done, Royal Caribbean generates your personalized luggage tags with your name, stateroom, and sailing. Print them at home.
• 2
  Fold and attach securelyFold along the lines and attach to each checked bag. Paper tags can tear off in handling.
• ★
  Pro tip: plastic tag holdersGrab a set of clear plastic cruise luggage tag holders on Amazon (a few dollars for 4–8). They loop through your bag handle and keep tags from ripping off. A tiny purchase that saves a lot of stress.

👗 Dress codes

🚫 What NOT to bring (prohibited)

• ✗Irons & steamers — a fire hazard and not allowed; laundry/pressing is available onboard.
• ✗Surge protectors & extension cords — banned. Bring a non-surge power strip or USB block instead.
• ✗Candles & incense — anything with an open flame is prohibited.
• ✗Beer, liquor & hard seltzer — see the wine allowance in the FAQ below.
• ✗Drones, hoverboards & weapons of any kind.

✅ Don't-forget essentials

Included in your fare (complimentary)

Specialty dining (extra cost)

Pay per meal or pre-book an Unlimited or 3-Night Dining Package in the Cruise Planner to save. Exact venues vary by ship.

The ship is completely cashless. Your SeaPass card (and the app) is your room key, your ID for getting on and off the ship, and how you pay for everything onboard.

Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, exclusive to their guests. Your ship docks right at the pier — no tender needed. Here's the honest breakdown of what's free versus what costs extra.

Royal Caribbean's award-winning youth program, included in your fare. Kids are grouped by age with age-appropriate activities, and there's a dedicated space for teens.