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Ways to Save Money on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Discover top tips to save money on Royal Caribbean cruises. Learn how to book early, choose off-season travel, and find the best deals for an affordable vacation.

By Cruise Booking Team

Are you interested in taking a Royal Caribbean Cruise? You can save money on your high-seas holiday by using a variety of money-saving tactics. Cruising with Royal Caribbean is an excellent opportunity to enjoy an affordable holiday while seeing various destinations aboard world-class cruise ships. Your base cruise cost includes a wide range of amenities, including hotel, transportation, select dining options, and entertainment. Planning a Royal Caribbean trip on a budget does not mean sacrificing luxury. On CruiseBooking.com, you will get excellent offers and promotions that will save you money.

If you want to know how to save money on a Royal Caribbean trip, this is the ultimate advice.

Ways to Save Money on Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

Going on a Royal Caribbean cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy a vacation, but it can get expensive if you’re not careful. From booking your trip to exploring the ports, costs can add up quickly. But the good news is, there are plenty of ways to keep your expenses in check without missing out on the fun. With a little planning, you can save a good amount of cash and still have an amazing experience. Here are 6 smart ways to stretch your budget and make the most of your cruise without breaking the bank.

1. Book at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to getting the best price on your cruise. Royal Caribbean often runs promotions throughout the year, offering discounts on fares, reduced deposits, or onboard credit. The best time to book is during the wave season, which happens from January to March. This is when cruise lines push their biggest deals. Also, last-minute discounts can pop up for travelers who have flexible schedules. Checking prices regularly and setting price alerts can help you snag a deal before rates go up.

If you’re traveling with family or a group, booking early can lock in lower prices and ensure you get the cabin you want. Suites and balcony rooms sell out fast, and prices climb as availability drops. On the other hand, if you don’t mind an interior cabin, waiting until closer to the sail date can sometimes score you a cheaper fare. Keep an eye on the price even after you book, if the fare drops before the final payment, you may be able to adjust your booking and save even more.

2. Skip the Drink Package (or Choose Wisely)

Drink packages can be tempting, but they’re not always worth the price. Royal Caribbean offers different options, including soda, refreshments, and alcohol packages. While unlimited drinks sound great, the daily cost adds up quickly. If you're not a big drinker, paying per drink might be cheaper in the long run. A glass of wine or a cocktail here and there won’t come close to the cost of the drink package.

Another way to save is by taking advantage of Royal Caribbean’s policy that lets you bring one bottle of wine per stateroom. You can also get free coffee, tea, lemonade, and water at various spots onboard. If you do want a package, look for discounts before your trip. Prices are often lower when purchased in advance through the Cruise Planner rather than onboard.

Also ReadHow much is the Royal Caribbean Drink Package?

3. Plan Shore Excursions Independently

Booking excursions through the cruise line is easy, but it’s often more expensive than planning your activities. Local tour operators usually offer the same experiences at a lower price. Websites like Viator and TripAdvisor can help you find highly rated excursions that fit your budget. Plus, booking directly with local guides can lead to a more personal experience without the large cruise crowds.

If you’re comfortable exploring on your own, walking tours, taxis, or public transportation can be much cheaper than organized tours. Some ports have beautiful beaches or attractions within walking distance of the ship, meaning you won’t need to spend anything at all. Just make sure to plan your time wisely, cruise ships won’t wait for late passengers if you’re not on a ship-sponsored excursion.

Also Read: Are There Any Royal Caribbean Cruise Deposits?

4. Be Smart About Specialty Dining

Royal Caribbean has plenty of specialty restaurants, but they come at an extra cost. While the food can be great, dining in the main dining room and buffet is included in your cruise fare. The menus change daily, so you won’t get bored with the options. If you still want to try specialty dining, look for discounted packages before your cruise, or book lunch instead of dinner, as prices tend to be lower.

Another trick is to check for special deals once you’re onboard. Sometimes, restaurants offer discounts on the first night or during less busy times. You can also visit specialty venues for free snacks or desserts, even if you’re not dining there. By balancing included meals with a few special treats, you can enjoy great food without overspending.

Also ReadWhat shows are available on Royal Caribbean cruise ships?

5. Use Onboard Credit Wisely

Onboard credit is like free money, but it can disappear quickly if you’re not careful. If your booking comes with onboard credit, use it for things you were planning to buy anyway. Spa treatments, excursions, and specialty dining are popular choices, but some purchases like casino bets may not be covered.

To make the most of your credit, check your account balance throughout the trip. If you have unused credit near the end of your cruise, you can spend it on souvenirs or last-minute drinks. Some people even use it to cover gratuities, which helps reduce their final bill. Just be sure to read the fine print, as some credits have restrictions on where they can be used.

Also Read: How much does Royal Caribbean Cruise Cost Per Person?

6. Stay Connected Without Overpaying for Wi-Fi

Royal Caribbean’s Wi-Fi packages can be pricey, but there are ways to stay connected without breaking the bank. If you don’t need internet 24/7, consider using free Wi-Fi at ports or cafes. Many coffee shops and restaurants near cruise terminals offer free internet when you make a small purchase.

If you do need Wi-Fi onboard, purchasing a package before your cruise is usually cheaper than buying it after you board. Another trick is to share a package with your travel companions. Royal Caribbean’s Voom Wi-Fi allows multiple devices, so splitting the cost can make it more affordable. If you just need to check messages occasionally, putting your phone in airplane mode and connecting, when necessary, will help keep costs down.

Also Read: How Much Are Royal Caribbean's Internet Packages?

Other Ways to Save Money

  • Bring Your Essentials: Items like sunscreen, seasickness medicine, and toiletries cost much more on board. Packing these ahead of time avoids overpriced purchases.
  • Take Advantage of Free Activities: From Broadway-style shows to rock climbing and trivia games, there’s plenty to do without spending extra money.
  • Avoid Shopping on the Ship: Onboard shops charge higher prices than regular stores. If you want souvenirs, wait until you’re in port for better deals.
  • Skip the Photo Packages: Ship photographers take great pictures, but they come with a hefty price tag. Instead, ask fellow passengers to snap a photo for you.
  • Use a Travel Agent: CruiseBooking.com gives access to exclusive deals or added perks like extra onboard credit or free specialty dining.
  • Watch for Daily Deals: The cruise line offers discounts on drinks, spa treatments, and dining throughout the trip. Check the daily planner for the best savings.
  • Opt for Laundry Specials: Instead of paying per item, wait for mid-cruise laundry deals that charge by the bag.
  • Pack Reusable Bottles: Water onboard can be expensive. Bringing a refillable bottle saves money and keeps you hydrated.

The Final Note

Saving money on a Royal Caribbean cruise doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With a little planning, you can stretch your budget while still enjoying all the amazing experiences the ship has to offer. From booking at the right time to making smart choices onboard, small savings add up fast. The key is knowing where to spend and where to cut back, so you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about the bill at the end. Get the most out of your Royal Caribbean cruise line by taking advantage of all the freebies and perks available in your package. You can find the Last-Minute Cruise Deals at CruiseBooking.com.

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