royal caribbean cruise wifi package

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Reviewed: Royal Caribbean VOOM Internet at Sea (Speed, Features, and More)

Royal Caribbean’s VOOM Internet service is billed as “The Fastest Internet at Sea.” That’s good news because gone are the days where having Internet service was considered a luxury. Today, it’s a necessity. And even if you want to disconnect while on a cruise (which is a good idea) there are still times where you’ll want access to hop online.

Whether it’s checking in for a flight, sending a quick email back home, or checking in with work while you are sitting on the balcony, there is no shortage of reasons you might need access. As the public becomes more dependent on Internet access, cruise lines have made real strides to offer online access to their guests.

If you’re taking a cruise, then you might be wondering exactly how the service works, how fast it really is, and how much it costs. Having sailed the line countless times, here’s what we can tell you…

In This Article...

Price of Royal Caribbean’s VOOM Internet Service

First things first, if you are planning to get online during your cruise, then expect to fork over some considerable money.

While we appreciate the complexities that are involved in accessing the Internet from the middle of the ocean aboard the ship, the price of the VOOM service is still considerably more than you would pay for service on land.

While rates may vary based on your specific cruise, expect to pay $20-25 per device , per day. We can’t tell you exactly what you’ll pay because Royal Caribbean often changes prices depending on the specific trip. As well, there are often discounts that can factor in as well.

For instance, on a recent cruise, we saw a price of $25 per day for the first device and $17 per day for additional connections. This assumes you bought a package for the full length of the trip. Booking wi-fi before the cruise, we paid around $17 for the first device.

What if you just want to hop online for a single day or just for a few minutes to check email? There are time blocks available for purchase, as well as a daily rate that is higher than the multi-day package rate. In this case, it was $28 for a 24-hour pass.

Remember: For the biggest savings you can pre-purchase an Internet package through the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner. The cruise line usually offers a discounted rate on Internet packages if booked ahead of time. We’ve seen this often at 10-25% off the onboard rate.

Signing Up/ Logging In to Access the Internet

The sign-up process for Royal Caribbean’s VOOM service is relatively simple. First, passengers enable wi-fi on their device and then select the ship’s service from the list of available connections.

Then, you will open up a new browser window. If you don’t see a login prompt to connect, then simply open a window and go to “Login.com”. From there, it should walk you through the steps to sign up for access, including creating a username and PIN. 

You should continue to have access to the Internet throughout the rest of the trip, but if the connection drops or you disconnect, then simply make sure you are connected to the Wi-Fi network and then visit “Login.com” again to sign-in.

During our trip, it seemed to help if we accessed the login page via a new private window, which cleared out any prior cookies from our browser.

If you have trouble accessing the Internet, there is a help-desk available on the ship.

Testing the Speed of Royal Caribbean’s VOOM Service

How fast is Royal Caribbean’s Internet? Following a recent upgrade to SpaceX’s Starlink service, it appears that speeds have improved dramatically .

Before Starlink, we commonly encountered speeds of 3-5 Mbps on the ship for its then fastest connection. For reference, many home broadband connections range between 20-100 Mbps (you can test your current connection speed here .)

And after the initial rollout of Starlink, we found similar speeds as well, leaving us unimpressed with the hype about the service. However, it seems those low speeds were an aberration. 

Taking a cruise in late 2023 — well after the full rollout of Starlink across the fleet — the speeds were blazing. We frequently tested the VOOM speed and consistently reached 40-60 Mbps, making it just as fast as our home internet.

We used the service extensively during our cruise, morning, day and night and across different devices and around different spots on the ship. The speed was solidly in the 40-60 Mbps range and doing everything from checking email to streaming video was solid. The slowest speed we encountered was around 15 Mbps.

Note that we haven’t checked the speed on every sailing and every ship. It could be that larger ships with more passengers connecting could lead to slower speeds. But the move to Starlink has seemed to lead to a significant speed increase.

Reliability of the Internet Connection

It can be frustrating to try to access the web, only to have issues with the internet connection. Unfortunately, you may run into some issues with the reliability of VOOM at times.

For instance, during the first day of one trip we took, the weather was bad, which has an impact on the connection. We had issues accessing websites and the service seemed to come and go. In fact, we had a similar issue during a morning storm later on in the cruise. There were also other times here and there that the connection seemed to be hit or miss for short spurts. Often it was resolved by logging out and logging back in.

Another cruise to Alaska aboard Royal Caribbean saw the Internet completely down for almost a day. When we went down to talk to the staff, we found an entire line of other passengers already there with the same complaint.

On the other hand, our most recent cruise where we saw significantly faster VOOM speeds via Starlink had almost zero issues with connectivity or speed. It was nearly flawless (there was a time or two where the service seemed down momentarily, but then came back quickly).

Bottom line: Don’t be surprised if the connection has some issues occasionally (you are at sea, after all), especially if you run into bad weather. For the most part, however, we found the service reliable.

Can I Stream With VOOM?

These days, streaming is a major part of everyone’s lives. The good news is that yes, you can stream with the “Surf+Stream” package.

We’ve tested various streaming services via the VOOM connection. According to Netflix , the absolute minimum required speed to access its service is 0.5 Mbps, with 3 Mbps recommended for standard definition streaming, and 5 Mbps recommended for HD streaming.

In our tests, streaming shows worked well. The same can be said for streaming on Max, YouTube, and other streaming services we’ve tried. 

Note that Royal Caribbean used to offer a simpler (and cheaper) “Surf” package that only allowed web browsing. With the move to Starlink, that seems to have gone away, and the only package offered is “Surf+Stream.”

If you do sail a ship that has both options, you’ll want the faster “Surf+Stream” service to watch video online.

Are There Dead Zones for Service Around the Ship?

You likely know that in your house there may be spots — like the corner of that one bedroom — where for whatever reason your wi-fi just doesn’t work. With a huge ship there may be dead zones for wi-fi service, but we’ve never encountered them.

Yes, there may be spots where the signal strength declines some (from a full three bars to two), but that’s never seemed to impact the speed of service. In fact, whether in a cabin, a dining room, the theater, or anywhere around the ship, we’ve been surprised at how consistent the wi-fi signal is onboard.

Keep in mind we haven’t visited every ship and every nook and cranny. Still, it seems you get a reliable connection no matter where you go.

Can I Use One VOOM Account for Multiple Devices?

One of the big drawbacks of the service is that for a considerable price, you only get the ability to connect one device. So if you want to hook up with your laptop and your traveling partner wants to connect their phone at the same time, then you need to pay for two devices. This costs considerably more.

As a workaround, if you don’t need full-time access you can simply use multiple devices, with only one connected at a time. So you can login on your laptop and browse. When you are done, your spouse can then sign-in on their phone using the same account.

It will inform you the device limit has been reached and ask if you want to connect the new device. If you do, then the new device will login and knock the other device offline.

What About Using Video Chat Services Like FaceTime?

Want to get in touch back home? VOOM allows services like FaceTime and other video calling. During our cruises we’ve been able to use FaceTime on our iPhone. The call quality did depend on the Internet connection. Some calls were choppy here and there, while others were crystal clear. The most recent cruise with the fastest connection made called flawlessly.

Overall, it was easy to talk to people back on land using the service.

Can I Message and Make Calls on my Phone via Wi-Fi?

Yes. While connected, we used WhatsApp to both message and make calls through the app. It worked flawlessly, and the voice calls were crystal clear. Other messaging apps or wi-fi calling should work as well. We also used iPhone’s iMessage and had no issues.

Can I Use a VPN With VOOM?

For privacy or work, some people connect to the internet via a VPN. We do too. Using the VOOM service, we had no issues using a VPN while on the ship and were able to easily connect. 

Does the Internet Work on CocoCay?

One perk of the VOOM service is that Royal Caribbean has setup service to where you can connect while on their private island, CocoCay . If you’re buying a wi-fi package, this essentially gives you an extra day of service since normally you can’t use the ship’s internet when in port.

We tested the connection while visiting the island and had the same positive impression as we did following the full implementation of the Starlink service. Speeds were blazing fast, even with two ships in port during the day. While there was some variance, they were generally in the 30-60 Mbps range. As well, the connection was solid.

So if you wanted to make a video call back home to make your family jealous of where you were visiting, that would be no problem.

Can I Work or Attend School With the Service?

Generally we are hesitant to say that a passenger would be able to work or attend classes online using a cruise ship’s internet connection. Reliability can be spotty and speeds can be slow.

Following the rollout of Starlink and our recent experience on a cruise to The Bahamas, we’ve changed our tune for Royal Caribbean’s VOOM service. During this most recent cruise the connection was solid with no hang-ups or dropped connections.

Meanwhile, the speeds of upwards of 60 Mbps were plenty fast for the vast majority of people. With that, you could attend Zoom meetings, watch lectures, upload large files or anything else you might need. 

If that’s going to be the experience across the fleet, then working or going to school online should be no issue. 

Have more questions about the specifics of using the VOOM service? Let us know in the comments below.

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This is an absolute lie. I am currently on a cruise, and I cannot even access a low/grade video, let alone play a game, download anything important, (heaven help you if you have to upload anything), or listen to Apple Music. It was 454.00 for 3 devices, and I cannot text my grandkids. So, my advice; don’t cruise if you need internet. Hotels everywhere have free internet. You’re much better off booking a vacation to where you’d like, unless of course you like a soda now and again or you need internet access. Truth.

I’ll be aboard the Icon of the seas on its Maiden voyage Jan 23. Do you know if I will be able to connect to my work vpn while aboard the cruise?

We had no issues on a recent cruise (not aboard Icon) connecting via our VPN, so it should be ok.

My wife and I are traveling on Wonder of the seas with RC in a week. We have the option of us both doing 1 device. Or I can do 2 devices under just me which is cheaper. If I do 2 devices under my name will my wife be able to have access as well under my 2nd device?

Yes, she will just need your login info.

You don’t mention anything about data limits. How much are you limited to, or is it unlimited? Royal Caribbean doesn’t mention anything about it as well. Guess a phone call is required to get straight answers.

I’ve never seen anything about data limits. It’s likely not going to be an issue unless you’re downloading massive files one after another. So if you stream a few movies during the cruise, that’s likely ok. But if you’re downloading the Library of Congress, they might notice and ask you to stop.

I know this is a late response to this 2018 article, but wanted to give you some info about the StarLink network. The strength of your download speed is dependent on which satellite you’re ship is closest to – in other words, regardless of RCCL’s contract, if there is not a SL satellite overhead, there won’t be SL service. When this article was written, the StarLink web was just getting started. Finally this year, Elon has announced the network will be completed “in 2023”. Ironically, I live in Cape Canaveral, among many SpaceX workers, and no one I know is using the service locally.

We’ll be on the ALLURE from 9/3-10. My wife purchased the “Surf only” package (1phone, and an Android). Will she be able to do text messaging or be able to use FB messenger?

Should be able to do so. I normally recommend always getting the fastest package, even though it may cost more. In general speeds are slower than we are all used to, so skimping here can be a pain.

Dear Tanner, do you have some update on the latest’s SL performances on Royal fleet? I Mean, I have some business that requires some Video calls / streaming and I`m afraid to not be able to do them while cruising… Don’t see the average 3-5Mbps you commented enough to those services…

I sailed a ship with Starlink equipped (Allure OTS in late 2022) and to be honest, I saw zero difference in connectivity.

Just want to make sure I understand correctly. If I am sailing with my husband and two children, I can by the package for just one of us with 4 devices and we can all share? That is significantly cheaper than buying the package for all of us, but want to make sure that this is allowed.

Yes, you can buy a four device package and all be on the wi-fi at once.

Hi, I’m thinking of cruising on Explorer of the Seas with Royal Caribbean. I’m going to need to possibly have an ethernet connection (wifi may be an option but not sure yet) for some zoom meetings I’ll have to do for work while there. Curious if you know what the speeds are now with Voom since this article was written and if they have the option to connect via ethernet in staterooms or somewhere else on the ship. Just not sure I can completely rely on cruise internet to get me through a bunch of zoom meetings. Thanks for your input.

Jose — I’ve never seen an option to connect via ethernet. And even if there was, you’re still relying on a satellite signal at sea. Royal Caribbean has moved to Starlink which is said to offer faster speeds, but on the ship we sailed with the service in November, we noticed no difference. At that point, service was in the 5-10 Mbps.

I will say that I’ve never used Zoom at sea, but have made video calls. The experience varies from perfectly smooth to very choppy, depending on the signal at that point. I’d think a schedule of full-fledged group video calls might be a big ask in my experience.

Jose, expect a 4 second delay when on any sort of “real-time” communication program at sea (like Zoom). There is quite a bit delay added between the ship and the satellite, then another delay added between the satellite and the Earth.

Patience is needed.

I phoned Royal Caribbean to query whether it was necessary to pay for 4 devices two my own two husbands if only using one each at any given time. They said need to pay for 4 which is more than £1000 in UK. Reading above information on this usage basis, we only need to pay for one device each and switch between using the connection on our phone and laptop. Is that correct please?

Right. If you don’t need all four connected at once, then you can pay for one device and switch between them.

Hi, I’m going on Mariner of the Seas at the end of the month. I need to log into an app which requires GPS location when I sign in and out at the end of the day. If I purchase the Surf & Stream using ships WiFi and I put my iPhone on airplane mode, will my app work and give my location?

Oh, that’s a tough question. I’m not 100% sure, but it seems like the location services tie to where the signal is based. For instance, I think I remember seeing mention of my device being in Miami while online on the ship. I would count on accurate GPS positioning not working, but not totally sure.

On Day 7 on Liberty of the Seas- bought the surf+stream – haven’t seen anything above 600Kbps since day 2- average has been between 200 and 400 Kbps or about 10X slower than the promised 2-3 Mbps. My business is dead in the water because I can’t do simple functions like send documents for esignature, access my CRM application or do other basic business tasks. I can barely send an email. Max speed in our stateroom (where you might actually want to stream a movie) has maxed out at 170 Kbps- I echo previous comments that they treat you like an IT idiot- and say things that don’t actually make sense- it might work on some of the old retired folks on this cruise but not everyone- the least they could be is honest.

Just off Mariner of the Seas. Boom was pretty bad. I had Voom Surf and Stream package. IT Rep told me Mariner is limited to 2Meg up an download. My experience was between 1.0 and 1.8 with upload being faster than download one time. Voom is different from one RCI type ship to another but RCI does not publish that disclaimer. Buyer beware!

can i connect to vpn using VOOM

That’s one that I’m not sure about. Royal Caribbean doesn’t mention anything specifically on its website and haven’t personally tested it before.

Will the Surf&Stream speeds support being able to take a Covid test for returning to the US. I’ll be on Serenade for an Alaska cruise.

I would think it should work. I was able to stream Netflix while at sea with it.

Cruising Jan 30th. I will need to log into daily Zoom calls for school. I live in Canada and have been out of country before and Zoom didn’t work. I wondered if you have any experience with this. Thanks

Not specifically with Zoom, but according to their requirements, you need to have 3.8Mbps/3.0Mbps (up/down) for group calls. It’s less for lower quality video. So you should be able to get that. Zoom might be blocked on the “Surf” (lower tier) but should be available on the “Surf + Stream” tier.

Keep in mind that your connection speed can vary depending on location and weather.

Hi cruising Jan. 8th on symphony of the seas purchased voom will I be able to call my brother back home anytime from any port or at sea ? Also will my brother be able to call me anytime from home when we’re at a port or when we’re at sea. Thank you

For phone calls, that will depend on the wi-fi call settings on your phone. That said, I’ve done video calls via Facetime and WhatsApp and it worked well.

hi there we are going to Alaska on Quantum of the Seas and My teen needs internet for school work. How well does it work going thru Alaska?

Haven’t personally tested it in that region. But in general, it’s much slower than at home. If they are connecting via video chat, then it might be pixelated/laggy… or it could be clear (it varies in our experience). If it’s getting to websites to submit assignments, then it should be fine.

I just experienced the worst possible internet service on R.C.’s Grandeur of the Seas. Speed measured in Kbytes instead of Mbytes, ping never less than 600 and even the end of cruise ‘deal’ cost $50 for 3 days of service. I did complain and was treated as if I were a computer novice, which I am not. They informed me that maximum speed was rated at 4 Mybtes but wifi service would be somewhat slower. Yes, 90% slower.

We have AT&T mobiles, and see that they have cruise packages in conjunction with the cruise lines. So if we purchase their $100 unlimited package for each phone, does that mean we use it on board, and don’t have to purchase VOOM? And we use our phones as usual? Adventure of the Seas on December 15.

Not entirely sure about the ins and outs of your phone’s plan. Sounds like it would work for you, however.

I am booked on Liberty if the Seas and purchased a 4 device package. There are 4 of us going. Does that mean we all 4 can log on at the same time or do I need to have a package for each?

If you booked the four device package, that means you can log on all at once. If you book the one device package, you can all four use it, but only one person at a time.

I sailed on Ovation of the Sea 7/5 – 7/12/2019. I purchased Voom for one device. It worked when it felt like working. I visited the Voom desk multiple times and was told that the area we were sailing in just had bad service. I paid nearly $100 for the week and did not get my money’s worth. They advertise that they are the fastest and best at sea. That is not true. It sometimes took me 30 minutes to log on. Very frustrating. I can’t even find someone to talk to about getting some kind of a refund.

If I purchase the Voom, will I be able to use a fire stick on the Vision of the Seas? How is the internet connection on The Vision of the Seas?

On the Independence of the Seas the internet is horrendous. Not worth the price. RC has fixed the TVs so you cannot use a fire stick even if the internet was faster.

We’d highly doubt it. The connection isn’t always great and the input ports on the TV are usually disabled.

Currently on the Voyager of the Seas, off the coast of Vietnam.

The service is much better than what we’ve had on Holland America in the last couple years.

However it’s hardly “streaming” capable. I would guess that the massive use of handheld devices is causing the systems to collapse under the load. All of these devices are constantly making updates to Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc and the cruise companies are still not equipped to deal with it.

Thanks for the update! It really helps other passengers.

Royal Caribbean Rhapsody INTERNET SUX! Connectivity was extremely poor and at times nonfunctional. It consistently dropped connections requiring one to constantly re-sign in. Speed tests showed under 2Mbps consistently tested over the course of 6 days in several areas of the ship which made streaming or uploading photos to social media simply impossible, never mind video calls. This indicated a switch not outputting enough POE to supply enough power to WAPS or simply not enough WAPS aboard for consistent coverage. Very disappointed that it was touted “the fastest internet at sea”. Completely useless and unmanageable. Seeking a refund.

Ah a comedian! 😉

So if I paid for 2 devices, I assume I’m just given 2 codes? We have 2 rooms and hoped each room could use 1 device. (Even though one person bought the 2-device package?)

It’s not codes, it’s just that you login to use the Internet. With two devices paid for you will be able to login with both at the same time. If you only paid for one, you would be booted off the other device when a new one logs in.

I prepaid for Voom on my upcoming cruise because they offered a discount precruise. So when I go to sign in, will they know that? I want to make sure I don’t get charged.

The system should recognize that you’ve already paid. Don’t worry though, there are staff members on the ship who are there to help people get online. If you have questions you can just talk to them to get everything sorted out.

I´m currently in Mariner of the Seas, and have been doing several speed test fom my phone (iPhone10) and my laptop (Lenovo Yoga); I´m using the “Voom Surf + Stream” service, and the speeds have have been: Ping at 628ms, Download at 0.78 Mbps and Upload at 0.65 Mbps. Video chat is not possible. Video streaming is very very slow and poor quality.

Thank you for the update! There’s no doubt that speeds will vary from ship to ship, but those speeds are particularly slow.

I tried to stream my DirecTV on my tablet while in port in Canada, and it did not work. I also tried to watch via Bravo’s website, and I got an error message that I could not use the service due to my location. I called DirecTV and they informed me that I cannot access content from my account outside of the US. Will I be able to connect while using Voom on a Caribbean cruise? I’d like the ability to stream live TV or view on demand shows during down time.

We aren’t sure, but would guess that you would not given that you will be outside the U.S. If you have Netflix, you can download some shows to watch offline. Maybe DirecTV has the same feature?

I read that the ships use US IP addresses. Has anyone else heard or have experience with this?

We’d love to know! We did you Youtube and Netflix and didn’t seem to have any issues with being out of the country. Not sure if other programs like DirecTV might raise an issue.

Hi, I’m going on Anthem of the Seas in 2 weeks. I teach English to kids in China over the internet live each day. I had planned on teaching from the ship. Now, I’m worried. I’ve paid for Voom streaming but 3mbs won’t work. I need at least 20.bs and a ping no higher than 100 at the most. Is there any service anywhere I can buy? Help!

That’s a tough one. I would guess that you can likely connect via Skype or a similar service, but the video will likely be a bit grainy through VOOM. You could connect to faster wi-fi when you are in port. Many restaurants and shops in ports offer wi-fi as a service to their customers.

Becky, did it work? I do the same thing and am going on my cruise at the end of the month.

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Royal Caribbean WiFi Cost: Is the Internet Package Worth It?

Did you know that Royal Caribbean International boasts the fastest internet in the entire cruise industry?

Whether you’re looking for onboard internet to send emails, make video calls, or stream movies, the Royal Caribbean cruise ships have a high-speed internet plan for your trip! With the implementation of Spacex’s Starlink , cruisers can purchase a VOOM Surf and Stream Package that works really well onboard the ships.

However, this internet package does come at a cost in addition to your cruise fare. So, you may find yourself wondering:

• How much VOOM costs ?
• Should you purchase it for your kids or just the adults ?
• Is the WiFi price worth it in the end?

In the post below, I’ll explain how I found a great deal on the Royal Caribbean internet package through a Black Friday Sale . I’ll also let you know whether or not I personally think the internet package is worth it on your cruise.

VOOM Internet

Many cruisers would agree that you really don’t get the full cruise experience when you’re attached to a cell phone, tablet, or laptop during your trip. However, people have all sorts of reasons for wanting (or even needing) internet access while on vacation.

I’ll go ahead and admit it here that my family is completely guilty of spending downtime on our devices while cruising. After all, a vacation is supposed to be relaxing right?

Some of the most common reasons you may want to buy the Royal Caribbean internet package include:

• Checking in at work
• Communicating with family members on land
• Turning in assignments for school
• Watching favorite shows or movies
• Posting on social media

Regardless of your reason for purchasing a Wi-Fi package on the cruise, you’ll want to ensure that the internet plan actually works . This is where Royal Caribbean International excels as it provides surfing and download speeds up to six times faster than any other cruise line.

Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet service is currently available on all of the ships . This groundbreaking internet at sea offers super fast speeds for guests wanting to surf the web while sailing.

So, how do you buy it?

When you access your Royal Caribbean cruise planner account , you’ll see the option to purchase the internet package. Note that Royal Caribbean used to offer a VOOM Surf Voyage Package; however, this option is no longer available after they began using Elon Musk’s Starlink.

Instead, you will find the VOOM Surf and Stream Package as the sole Wi-Fi package available. The VOOM Surf & Stream Package features fast internet speeds that allow you to participate in video chat, post on social media, stream movies, etc.

Internet Package Cost

The Royal Caribbean internet package is available for different prices depending on your sailing. It’s also important to note that the cost fluctuates a lot , so you’ll want to check the cruise planner regularly.

I’m a bit of a fanatic about getting the best deals on things, especially in the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner. So, I checked the price daily before our trip and noticed that the Royal Caribbean WiFi cost ranged from $19.99 to $25.99 per person per day .

On my family’s most recent cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas , the cost of wifi typically hovered around $19.99. So, for our family of 4 at a price of $19.99 per day, the internet package would have cost $79.96 per day of the cruise.

Black Friday Sale

We chose not to purchase the Royal Caribbean internet package at the $19.99 price listed above. Instead, we waited for the annual Black Friday Sale in November .

Luckily, Royal Caribbean provided discounted prices for their VOOM internet package during this sale. We were able to score the VOOM Surf + Stream Package for just $13.99 per person per day !

On a side note, we were also able to get a big discount on the beverage packages during the Black Friday Sale. You can read all about the drink options and prices in our post on Royal Caribbean Beverage Packages . In that article, we also let you know if the Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it or not.

Piece of Advice

When you click to purchase the internet package, you’ll be prompted to choose the people in your party who you would like included in the package. For example, my stateroom had 4 members of our family assigned to it, so I could specify which family members I wanted to purchase the package for.

You could easily purchase the package just for the adults in the stateroom or just for one person in the stateroom in order to save money. During this process, I learned a really easy trick to saving money on the internet package.

Instead of purchasing an internet package for each person in your stateroom, it’s almost always cheaper to buy Wi-Fi for ONE person and then add additional devices.

In other words, when purchasing the internet package for my family, I selected my name ONLY . Then, I chose the Multiple Devices option to select the number of devices (up to 4) I wanted on my account.

For some reason, it was way cheaper for us to purchase VOOM internet for one person on four separate devices than it was to buy one device for four separate people.

Getting Started

After boarding the cruise ship, it’s really easy to get started with the onboard internet.

• Just put your device in Airplane Mode.
• Turn on Wi-Fi on your device and choose the ship’s guest wifi.
• Create your internet account and password.

After completing those steps, your Royal Caribbean internet package should be up and running! The image below shows a copy of the VOOM instructions that we received in our stateroom.

If you purchased internet packages for multiple people in your party, each person will have his/her own login and password . However, if you purchased an internet package for multiple devices , all of the devices will share the same password .

Sharing a Package

In order to save money on Royal Caribbean’s internet packages, many cruisers choose to purchase a VOOM package for one member of their travel party. Then, they share the package throughout the cruise.

This works well for those families who are comfortable taking turns using the internet during their vacation. If you decide to share an internet package, it’s important to note that one person must log off in order for a second person to access the package.

In order to save the headache of going through and having to login each account until the right one is disconnected, I suggest disconnecting the device FIRST before logging in on the new one .

So, if you purchased an internet package for a single device, that device must log off before the new device is able to use your password. I will note here that this was one of the more frustrating issues with the internet package onboard until we started following the tip in the green box above.

My family and I had purchased the package for four devices. Whenever we needed to activate a new device, the internet did not prompt us on which device to remove . In other words, when I wanted to use my laptop instead of my phone, I would login to the internet on my laptop. 

But it wouldn’t ask which device I wanted to disconnect. So, another member of my family would sometimes get annoyed when their device got disconnected.

Extra Information

Below are a few of the questions we had about the Royal Caribbean internet packages before experiencing them for ourselves:

How do you cancel the Royal Caribbean Internet package?

Before your sailing, you can cancel the Royal Caribbean internet package easily by calling RCCL or through your online Cruise Planner account . If you notice the price has gone down in the Cruise Planner, it’s super easy to cancel and rebook for the new price.

Is Wi-Fi free on Royal Caribbean ships?

Wi-Fi is not free on Royal Caribbean ships. If you are interested in Wi-Fi solely for communicating with others onboard, the cheapest option available is the chat feature in the app . This allows guests to chat with other guests in the Royal Caribbean app for free.

Additionally, you may receive free Wi-Fi depending on the stateroom or other packages you book . For example, guests who have added The Key to their cruise package will receive Wi-Fi as part of their The Key fee.

Finally, if you booked a suite in the Star or Sky class , you will receive a VOOM Surf and Stream Package for each person in your room. You can read more about the suite benefits in our post on Royal Caribbean Suites Perks .

Does the internet work on shore excursions?

The internet packages do not work unless you are on the Royal Caribbean ship or at Perfect Day at CocoCay . That being said, many of the ports you visit will have Wi-Fi available, so you can always connect there.

Is the Internet Package worth it on Royal Caribbean?

If you’re looking for the full internet experience on your trip, then we totally think the Royal Caribbean internet packages are worth it . 

My husband and I were able to stay connected with work and others at home. Plus, my young kids were able to stream their favorite shows and movies during downtime in the room.

Overall, we would recommend the Royal Caribbean internet package if you’re wanting an internet connection during your trip. We really lucked out in catching the Black Friday Sale that offered discounted prices for the package.

↓↓ Check Out My Etsy Shop ↓↓

If you’re wanting to stay connected while also saving money, I think it would be doable to purchase a package for just one or two devices. Then, the other members of your family could take turns using the packages when needed.

I suggest weighing the cost of the packages with your need of being connected. Then, just go with whatever works for you and your family to have the best vacation experiences possible!

Have you used a Royal Caribbean internet package? Share your experiences with it below!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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14 comments.

How could i facebook a family member on cruise with me if i have one package and 2 devices with same log in?

If you have one package with two devices, it will allow you to login to the WIFI using the same password on both devices. From there, you should be able to use Facebook and other apps normally.

Does having the package and adding 1 device allow me and the other person using the same login/password….

To text nonstop between each other? For instance me and my daughter.

I have heard using the royal app for free can be delayed in texting.

If you have two devices on the package (one for you and one for your daughter), you can both be logged in at the same time. This will allow you to text each other.

Hi. I am soon on RC Wonder of the Seas with two 13 year old boys. I know they will be having fun in the pools and waterslides. Besides their cell phones, is there any way to keep tabs on them? I am worried they will leave their phones on tables or forget and get in the water. Is there are any way to keep tabs on them without their phones? I want to give them a bit of free reign, not too much, and need to know where they are.

My kids are small, so this isn’t something we have had to deal with yet. But, I know a lot of families cruise with walkie talkies to keep in touch with their kids on the ship. These walkie talkies were recommended to me by another cruiser, but I have not personally used them. Maybe another reader will chime in with their experience.

How much was it to add on an additional device to your primary account?

The price for adding a device will depend on your ship and sailing. On our last Oasis of the Seas cruise, we paid $12 per day for each additional device.

Hi Shari, I’m a bit confused. When looking at the app there is an option of buying the Vroom package for each guest – 4 guest and 1 device $ 1053 1 guest and 4 device – $800. we are 2 adults and 2 teens travelling. Does one person buy the package for 4 devices?? so confusing

I was so confused by this too! You can purchase either option that you mentioned above, but my family and I always go with the cheaper one. So, if you buy 1 guest with 4 devices, you will all share login information. All four of you can be on your devices at the same time. If you want to login with an additional device, it will automatically log out of one of the original four devices. Hope that helps!

Thanks for that! I’ve been wondering whether it would work to buy 3 devices or 3 packages. So, all you need is the same password and my kids will be fine?

When deciding between 3 devices or 3 packages, I would go with whichever option is cheaper. If you do the 3 devices, you will be able to use the same password on up to 3 devices. If you need to login to a fourth device, it will just disconnect one of the other 3. Hope that helps! Have a great trip!

Can you purchase internet for just one day? (Rather than buying a whole package). Thanks, Jon

I have never seen the option in the Cruise Planner to purchase internet for just one day. However, I have heard from multiple people that Royal Caribbean *sometimes* allows you to purchase internet onboard the ship for around $30 per 24 hours.

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Royal Caribbean Internet Packages: Our Review of Voom WiFi

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Royal Caribbean’s internet packages make using the internet on a ship faster, cheaper, and more dependable than before.

They say they have the “fastest internet at sea.” With Starlink internet service, their Voom WiFi package gives fast internet speeds.

If you’re considering staying connected on your Royal Caribbean cruise, we can share our experience to help you know what to expect.

Table of Contents

Royal Caribbean Internet Packages

Royal Caribbean used to offer two internet packages but has since streamlined its WiFi offering to one plan, Voom Surf & Stream.

Voom Surf & Stream offers fast internet speeds thanks to the Starlink internet service on every ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet .

With the Voom Surf & Stream WiFi Package, you can:

• Browse the web
• Send and receive emails
• Chat on messenger apps (e.x. Whatsapp, Signal)
• Stream movies, music, videos, TV shows
• Post on social media

Royal Caribbean used to offer a cheaper Voom Surf Voyage package with slower speeds. However, since the introduction of Starlink, they’ve removed the cheaper WiFi package.

Royal Caribbean WiFi Cost

Royal Caribbean’s costs  between $20 to $26 per device per day. Like Royal Caribbean’s drink package, the prices for high-speed internet  vary by itinerary, cruise ship, and destination.

There are also 24-hour internet access passes at a higher price. On my Serenade of the Seas cruise in 2022, I paid $33 for a 24-hour pass.

You can purchase multi-device packages, which reduce the per-device cost of the onboard internet on Royal Caribbean.

Although prices vary by sailing, you’ll always get the best deal when you book in advance. Once you’re on the ship, prices are always higher.

Purchase your internet package in advance to save money.

How Fast is Royal Caribbean’s WiFi?

Thanks to Royal Caribbean’s partnership with Starlink, Voom Internet is incredibly fast.

I bought the Surf & Stream package for our 2023 cruise on Symphony of the Seas in the Mediterranean. The internet was fast. I discovered that the download speed was 83 Mbps and the upload speed was 17 Mbps.

I did many speed tests during our cruise. I recorded speed tests at different times of the day to see how the satellite positions and where our ship was could change the internet speed.

I noticed that the internet speed went up and down a bit depending on how many satellites were above us. But overall, the internet worked well during our week-long cruise. The speed changes were minor. I wouldn’t have seen them if I wasn’t checking the WiFi speed on purpose.

The WiFi speeds are slower in the cabin and in some areas of the ship’s interior where the WiFi signal is weaker. But even in my interior stateroom, I could stream movies and video chat without problems.

Discounts on Voom Internet

Royal Caribbean offers significant discounts if you purchase the internet package before your cruise – which we always recommend to save money.

The internet packages are cheaper when you buy before sailing to encourage more purchases. So, if you need internet access on your cruise, you’ll definitely want to pre-purchase the internet package.

After you embark on your Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll find higher prices for internet access.

To pre-purchase internet service, simply log into your Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner and navigate to  Internet & More  to order Royal Caribbean Voom internet service.

You also receive a discount when you purchase internet service for more than one device or bundle the WiFi package with a Royal Caribbean drink package .

The price of the cruise ship WiFi package fluctuates throughout the year. So check back often to see if there is a price drop. If the price drops below what you paid, call the cruise line and ask for a discount. Or cancel and re-buy the package.

On our Symphony of the Seas sailing, we purchased the Voom Surf & Stream package for $19.99 . The lower-priced Surf package was on sale for $14.99.

Diamond Discount

Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society  members who are Diamond or above also get a special discount.

You can’t use your Crown & Anchor discount before sailing. You’ll have to wait until you’re onboard the Royal Caribbean ship to purchase the Voom internet on Royal Caribbean.

The discount for Diamond and higher Society members varies between 9.6% to 28.8% depending on the duration of the cruise:

• 4-night itineraries: 28.8%
• 5-night itineraries: 23%
• 6-night itineraries: 19.2%
• 7-night itineraries: 16.4%
• 8-night itineraries: 14.4%
• 9-night itineraries: 12.8%
• 10-night itineraries: 11.5%
• 11-night itineraries: 10.5%
• 12-night itineraries: 9.6%

Can You Get Free WiFi on Royal Caribbean

The only way to get free WiFi on Royal Caribbean is to book a suite.

Guests booked in Sky Class and Star Class suites receive a free WiFi package for one device. 

Suites on Royal Caribbean are very pricey, and I don’t recommend booking a suite for free WiFi. But you’ll receive several exclusive perks when you book a Royal Caribbean suite .

How to Save Money on Royal Caribbean Internet Plans

I found an easy trick to save money on the WiFi plan, so you don’t need to purchase packages for every device.

Here’s how it works.

Royal Caribbean’s internet packages are priced on a per-device basis. But the WiFi login doesn’t limit you to one device.

Using one login, you can log into Royal Caribbean’s WiFi on multiple devices. But here’s the catch: the high-speed internet only works on one device at a time.

This means you can purchase one package and use the WiFi across multiple devices, but only one device can connect to Royal Caribbean internet at a time.

For example, let’s say you want to connect your laptop to the internet to check your emails. You can’t use the internet on other devices while your computer is connected.

After you finish on your laptop, you can connect your phone to the WiFi service. When you log in, you’ll receive a warning that your previously connected device will be disconnected if you proceed. Simply accept the notification, and your phone will connect to the WiFi while your laptop disconnects.

This trick is a great way to save money if you don’t require multiple devices to connect simultaneously.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to purchase multiple packages to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

How to Access the Internet on Royal Caribbean

Connecting your device to the Voom internet package is relatively simple. First, enable the WiFi on your device and select the ship’s WiFi service from the list.

When your device connects to the ship’s internet, your device will open a new web browser. If your device doesn’t automatically open the browser, you can open it yourself.

At this point, you should see the login prompt. If not, visit “ Login.com ,” where you can sign in using the provided password.

You should have an internet connection throughout the ship, but if you lose the connection, check that your WiFi is turned on, then visit “ Login.com ” again to sign in.

It’s important to note that the internet might not be available throughout the ship. If you have issues with your internet connection, visit the help desk.

Using the Royal Caribbean App Without a WiFi Package

Yes. The Royal Caribbean app works without purchasing an internet package. You must connect to the ship’s WiFi for free to access the Royal Caribbean app features.

But you don’t need to purchase an internet package to use the app.

The app connects to the ship’s WiFi network, allowing you to access services like daily schedules, dining options, and ship maps, check account statements, and make My Time Dining reservations .

Simply connect to the ship’s WiFi to use the app. The WiFi name follows the same format: Guest-(ship name)-WiFi. On our Symphony of the Seas cruise, the WiFi was named Guest-SymphonyoftheSeas-WiFi.

Can You Use the Internet Package at CocoCay?

Yes, you can use the Royal Caribbean Internet package at CocoCay. Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, CocoCay, offers WiFi, enabling guests to remain connected while enjoying the island’s attractions. If you’ve purchased an internet package for your cruise, you can connect to the WiFi at CocoCay.

Is Royal Caribbean’s WiFi Worth It?

Royal Caribbean WiFi is worth it for those needing reliable and fast connectivity at sea. Enhanced by the integration of Starlink, VOOM offers improved speed and stability, making it suitable for a wide range of online activities, including streaming, video chatting, and web browsing.

Royal Caribbean’s WiFi is worth it if you need a fast and reliable internet connection on a cruise ship. Royal Caribbean now uses Starlink internet service. The Starlink internet makes Voom faster and more stable.

Royal Caribbean’s Voom WiFi is fast enough for various online activities, including streaming, video chatting, and web browsing.

The internet service isn’t cheap. But if you need internet at sea, Royal Caribbean’s fast internet is worth the price.

Marcello De Lio

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Are all Messengers are working with Voom? Such as WhatApp, Line, Wechat, Telegram, Facebook Messenger etc?

Yes. You might need to upgrade to the surf + stream package to use video chatting features. But all of the messaging apps you mentioned should work with Voom internet.

If I was to purchase the voom for 2 devices, it sounds like I could only access the internet using one device at a time, is that correct? Is it managed with a password?

My husband I and would both like to utilize this, but we are not heavy users, so if it was shared this would be ideal (his tablet/my phone). What if you have four devices? Can you still utilize all four, just only one active one at a time?

Yes, that is correct. The internet access is managed with a password and can be used on multiple devices – but only one device at a time. Victoria and I use this trick all the time when we cruise. It’s a great way to save money on the internet plan if you don’t need a constant internet connection.

Hi Marcello If I need to cancel my online internet how would I do this.

You should contact Royal Caribbean for help with cancelling your internet plan. Here is a link to their contact page https://www.royalcaribbean.com/resources/contact-us

Hi… thanks for all the information. I was wondering ATT has a cruise package. Would this be better than Voom? Thanks

If you will need traditional calling and texting you will be better off choosing AT&T, as you won’t get that with the cruise line. Otherwise, it depends on how much internet you will be using. Currently, AT&T offers 200 MB for $100. On a five-night cruise or less, Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet is cheaper. But on six-night sailings or longer AT&T is cheaper, if you are using less than 200 MB.

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Royal Caribbean Internet Packages: Voom WiFi In-Depth

Navigating the high seas doesn’t mean you have to be cut off from the digital world. Whether you’re a social media aficionado, a work-from-anywhere professional, or simply someone who likes to stay in touch with family and friends, the allure of onboard internet is undeniable.

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean has got you covered with their robust internet offerings, promising you a seamless online experience while you cruise.

Is Royal Caribbean’s Voom WiFi truly the “fastest internet at sea,” as they claim? They offer two distinct packages: Surf, for basic internet needs like browsing and social media, and Surf & Stream, ideal for those looking to video chat, stream, and more.

Stay tuned as we dive into the nitty-gritty of Royal Caribbean’s internet packages, offering you a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice for your cruising needs.

(Unless you want to use a walkie-talkie on your next cruise to communicate with your group and save some serious $$$ )

Table of Contents

Royal Caribbean Internet Packages

The price range for Voom WiFi packages aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise can fluctuate based on several variables. Typically, you can anticipate spending approximately $11 to $16 daily for the standard package, and around $15 to $20 daily for the more advanced package.

Before going deeper into the complex pricing structure, let’s first explore the two distinct types of internet packages available and the features they offer.

Voom Surf Voyage Package

If your internet needs are fundamental, the Voom Surf Voyage package might just be what you’re looking for.

Tailored for cruisers who want straightforward internet access, this package keeps you online around the clock. Here’s what you can do with this basic plan:

• Web Browsing : Freely navigate the internet, whether it’s for leisurely reading or important research.
• Email Access : Keep your inbox in check and never miss an important email while you’re sailing.
• Messenger Apps : Stay connected through chat apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, and Facebook Messenger. Please note that while text messaging is supported, voice and video calls are not available with this package.

Speed and Limitations

It’s important to manage your speed expectations when you opt for the Voom Surf Voyage package. Royal Caribbean intentionally limits the speeds on this plan.

Why? The idea is to encourage passengers to upgrade to the more bandwidth-heavy Voom Surf & Stream package.

If you’re planning to just browse the internet or shoot off some emails, this package should suffice. However, for those requiring faster speeds for tasks like streaming, upgrading would be a wise choice.

Voom Surf & Stream Package

For those who demand more from their internet experience while cruising, the Voom Surf & Stream package takes connectivity to the next level. It encompasses all the features of the basic Surf package, but with several enticing add-ons and faster speeds. So what sets this package apart?

• Video Chatting : Stay face-to-face with your loved ones or even hold a business meeting via video chat platforms.
• Live Streaming : Keep your social media followers in the loop by live streaming your cruise adventures.
• Streaming Services : Binge-watch your favorite shows or groove to your favorite playlists, all while cruising in the middle of the ocean.

Speed and Capabilities

The Surf & Stream package is not throttled, which translates to faster and more reliable internet speeds. If your internet needs include watching videos, streaming music, or anything that requires high bandwidth, this is the package for you.

The Voom Surf & Stream Package offers:

• 24-hour internet access
• Standard web browsing
• Emailing capabilities
• Chat support on messenger apps like WhatsApp and Signal
• Video live chats
• The ability to stream movies, TV shows, music, and other content
• Live streaming and posting on social media platforms

While the Surf & Stream package is undoubtedly more feature-rich, it does come at a higher cost compared to the basic Surf package.

However, if you value faster speeds and the ability to engage in a range of online activities, the extra cost can be justified.

Royal Caribbeans Internet Pricing Breakdown

Understanding the cost of internet access aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise can be a bit of a puzzle, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Just like the fluctuating prices of their drink packages, the cost of WiFi varies based on several factors such as the ship, the sailing, and the time of purchase.

Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate these waters:

Standard Rates for Cruise-Length Access

• Voom Surf Package : The average daily rate usually falls between $12.99 and $15.99 per device. This is the cost if you’re planning on using the internet throughout the entire length of your cruise.
• Voom Surf & Stream Package : If you want the higher tier, expect to pay around $17.99 to $19.99 per device per day.

Single-Day Pass

If you don’t need internet for the entire cruise, you have the option of purchasing a 24-hour pass. However, this comes at a steeper price:

• Voom Surf 24-hour pass : Generally costs in the ballpark of $25.99 per device.
• Voom Surf & Stream 24-hour pass : Prepare to shell out around $32.99 per device for a single day.

Yes, you read that right—the prices almost double when you opt for just a day’s access!

Family and Multi-Device Plans

Here’s where it gets even more interesting.

If you’re cruising with family or simply have multiple devices, you can snag a discount by purchasing a family plan.

For example, a five-device plan for the Surf package can reduce the average cost to approximately $9 per device.

Pro Tip For Extra Savings

• Early Bird Discounts : Royal Caribbean encourages early purchases by offering significant discounts when you buy your internet package before sailing. Simply log into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean’s website, navigate to the ‘Internet & More’ section, and secure your Voom internet package there. Pre-booking not only secures your internet access but also saves you money.
• Multiple Device Discounts : If you have more than one device or are cruising with family, take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s multi-device discounts. This can bring down your per-device cost considerably.
• Watch for Price Changes : The price of internet packages can fluctuate throughout the year. Keep an eye out for price drops even after you’ve made your purchase. If you notice a lower price, you have the option to call Royal Caribbean for a discount or cancel and re-buy the package at the reduced rate.

Diamond Discount: A Royal Perk for Loyal Cruisers

If you’re a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society and have achieved Diamond status or higher, you’re in for an extra treat: a special discount on Voom internet packages.

However, it’s important to note that you can only take advantage of this benefit once you’re onboard.

How the Diamond Discount Works:

• When to Apply : Unlike pre-booking discounts, the Diamond discount is applied exclusively onboard. You won’t be able to use your Crown & Anchor discount in advance of your sailing.
• 4-night itineraries : 28.8% discount
• 5-night itineraries : 23% discount
• 6-night itineraries : 19.2% discount
• 7-night itineraries : 16.4% discount
• 8-night itineraries : 14.4% discount
• 9-night itineraries : 12.8% discount
• 10-night itineraries : 11.5% discount
• 11-night itineraries : 10.5% discount
• 12-night itineraries : 9.6% discount

If you’re a Diamond or higher member of the Crown & Anchor Society, make sure to capitalize on these onboard discounts to get the most bang for your buck when purchasing a Voom internet package.

How Fast Is Voom?

Voom’s internet speed is revolutionized by Royal Caribbean’s partnership with Starlink, making it incredibly fast for a sea-bound experience.

Recent tests showed download speeds of up to 77.03 Mbps and upload speeds of 15.72 Mbps on Starlink-enabled ships.

However, speed can vary depending on factors like the ship’s location and satellite coverage. It’s worth noting that you might experience a slight slowdown when connecting from your cabin.

If your cruise is on a non-upgraded ship, expect slower internet—adequate for basic tasks but less ideal for heavier data usage.

Nonetheless, with Starlink technology becoming increasingly standard across the fleet, you’re likely to enjoy high-speed internet comparable to what you’d have back home.

Which Voom Package Should You Buy?

Choosing the right Voom package on a Royal Caribbean cruise boils down to your specific internet needs and preferences.

If your primary concern is basic connectivity—for checking emails, updating social media, or sending text messages via apps like WhatsApp—the Voom Surf Voyage Package should suffice.

However, if you’re looking for a more robust internet experience that includes video streaming, live video chats, or access to streaming platforms like Netflix or Spotify, the Voom Surf & Stream Package would be a more suitable choice.

Don’t forget to consider the pricing: Surf generally costs around $13 per day for a single device, while Surf & Stream is around $18 per day, with fluctuations depending on various factors.

Does The Royal Caribbean App Work Without WiFi?

You don’t need to purchase a Voom internet package to use the Royal Caribbean app while you’re onboard. All you have to do is connect to the ship’s guest Wi-Fi.

You can easily do this through your phone’s settings; just look for the Wi-Fi network named “Guest-(ship name)-Wi-Fi.”

Once connected, you’ll be able to use the app or even purchase an internet package if you decide you want broader online access.

To purchase or activate a package, simply go to login.com through a web browser.

The app itself comes packed with a range of features, although these can vary depending on the specific ship you’re on.

Some universal functionalities include the ability to sign into your guest account (you must be at least 13 years old), check into your cruise, and link reservations with other guests.

It’s also your gateway to a variety of onboard activities, dining options, and even loyalty program details.

Once you’re connected to the guest Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to make specialty and My Time dining reservations , reserve shows and shore excursions, browse and save daily activities to your calendar, explore deck plans, monitor your onboard spending, and even unlock your stateroom door.

Some ships even offer the ability to order food delivery through the app. Even without a paid internet package, the Royal Caribbean app keeps you well-connected throughout your cruise.

Can I Use One Account For Multiple Devices?

One limitation of the service is that each account only allows for a single device to be connected at any given time. If both you and your spouse want to use the internet on separate devices simultaneously, you’ll have to purchase access for two devices.

However, there’s a way around this restriction if continuous connectivity isn’t a must-have for you. You can switch between multiple devices while keeping just one connected at any given moment.

For instance, if you’ve been using the internet on your laptop and then want to switch to your phone, you’ll encounter a prompt informing you that you’ve reached your device limit.

At this point, you can choose to disconnect the laptop and connect the phone instead.

Can I Use Voom For Video Chat Services Like Facetime Or Zoom?

Yes! If you’re looking to make video calls via FaceTime, Zoom, or other similar services while cruising on Royal Caribbean, you’ll need to opt for the Voom Surf + Stream WiFi package.

The basic Voom Surf package won’t suffice for these activities as it has speed restrictions that prevent video calling.

Call quality on the Voom Surf + Stream package is generally good, although you may experience occasional choppiness.

If staying connected via video calls is important to you while you’re at sea, the Surf + Stream package is your go-to option.

Do Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships Have Free Wifi?

Generally speaking, Royal Caribbean cruise ships do not offer free WiFi to guests. The exception is for those who have booked a Star or Sky Royal Suite Class suite, as each guest in these premium suites receives one complimentary Surf + Stream package.

If you’re a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor loyalty scheme, even at the Diamond level, free WiFi is not included as a perk.

However, there are some opportunities for free WiFi during the cruise when the ship is docked at a port.

Overall, unless you are staying in one of the most luxurious suites, you should expect to pay for internet access while on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Which Royal Caribbean Ships Have Starlink Internet?

Royal Caribbean is in the process of upgrading its ships with Starlink Internet, aiming to complete the fleet-wide update soon.

As of now, at least four ships have been confirmed to have active Starlink internet:

• Freedom of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Enchantment of the Seas

Other ships like Allure of the Seas are in line for the upgrade, but the cruise line has been discreet about the rollout schedule.

Reader reports have also indicated that Liberty of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas recently activated their Starlink services.

However, Royal Caribbean has not announced an official timeline for each ship’s upgrade, relying instead on the passenger community to confirm the presence of Starlink.

Importantly, the cost of internet services on Starlink-equipped ships remains the same as it was with the previous technology, as of the latest information available.

How To Connect To Royal Caribbean WiFi

By following these straightforward steps, you should have no trouble accessing the internet while enjoying your Royal Caribbean cruise.

• Turn On Device WiFi : Open your device’s WiFi settings and look for the network named “royal-wifi.” Connect to it.
• Open Web Browser : Once connected, your device should automatically open a web browser. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to manually open a browser.
• Login or Sign Up : At this point, a login prompt should appear. If you’ve pre-purchased a Voom package, entering your details will activate your pre-paid internet access. If you haven’t pre-purchased, you can select the package you want at this point, and the cost will be added to your onboard account.
• Troubleshooting : In case you encounter any issues or glitches during this process, Guest Services is available to assist you.
• Maintaining Connection : If you find you’ve lost connection at any point during your cruise, double-check to ensure your WiFi is enabled and visit “Login.com” to re-sign into your account.
• Additional Support : If you experience connectivity issues that you cannot resolve, you can always visit the help desk on the ship for assistance.

FAQ’s

Can you send texts via royal caribbean’s wifi.

Regular text messaging through your mobile network isn’t advised due to possible roaming charges. However, text messaging through internet-based services like WhatsApp, iMessage, or Facebook Messenger is possible with a purchased Voom Surf WiFi package.

Is WiFi calling possible on Royal Caribbean ships?

You can make WiFi calls if you’ve opted for the Surf + Stream Voom package. The basic Surf package restricts WiFi calling, allowing only texting and browsing.

Can WhatsApp be used on Royal Caribbean?

Absolutely! Text messaging through WhatsApp is possible with the basic Voom Surf package. For voice or video calls on WhatsApp, you’ll need the Surf + Stream package.

Can I use iMessage on Royal Caribbean ships?

iMessage works with any Voom WiFi package for texting. If you wish to send voice messages, the Surf + Stream package will be required.

Is FaceTime an option on Royal Caribbean cruises?

Yes, you can use FaceTime, but you’ll need to purchase the Voom Surf + Stream package for sufficient internet speed. The basic Surf package will not support FaceTime.

Can I use Zoom while on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Zoom is accessible, but only with the Surf + Stream package, as the basic Surf package does not offer the required speeds for video calls.

What about using TikTok on board?

You may be able to use TikTok with the basic Voom Surf package, but for more reliable loading and streaming, the Surf + Stream package is recommended.

Can I stream content with Voom?

Certainly! The Surf & Stream package offers speeds between 3-5 Mbps, which meets the minimum requirements for most streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.

Can Voom handle video chatting apps like Facetime or Zoom?

Yes, you can conduct video calls via Facetime, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger with the Surf + Stream package, although you may experience some minor interruptions in call quality.

Can I use internet messaging and WiFi calling on my phone with Voom?

Absolutely, the Voom internet works well with internet-based messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Facebook Messenger. Voice calls are usually clear. Just remember to switch your phone to airplane mode to avoid extra roaming charges.

Can multiple devices be connected to a single Voom account?

The service generally allows only one device per account at a time. However, you can switch between devices by disconnecting one and connecting another. You’ll be prompted to do this once you reach your device limit.

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• Ships and Lines

Royal Caribbean Internet VOOM Packages Prices

Here, CruiseMapper provides you with updated for 2021 information on all currently offered by the company Royal Caribbean International Internet packages, RCI ships' unlimited Internet cost, and different plans prices. Here you will also find an extensive review of Royal Caribbean International's VOOM internet, as well as the company's shipboard Internet policy rules.

Royal Caribbean VOOM Internet

VOOM is named RCI's new high-speed internet shipboard service that provides cruise ship passengers with the pleasure to enjoy at sea faster connectivity, with almost the same high-speed Internet connections they use on land. The new satellite technology utilizes each RCI ship specifically.

VOOM Internet has latency 120 ms, ping ~300 ms, download speed ~4,6 Mbps, upload speed ~5,2 Mbps. VOOM allows fast streaming of music and movies (incl YouTube, Netflix), uploading multiple (incl big-sized) pictures, also video chatting (FaceTime, Skype, conference calls), checking email, web surfing, stable and fast VPN connections. The onboard system is based on the 802.11b wireless connection (theoretical bandwidth peak 11 Mbps).

• Shipboard Internet access is integrated into the stateroom number and the personal onboard account. Following the log-on to the ship's wireless network "Royal WiFi", there is an option for creating an Internet account where the passenger can sign up for a particular Internet plan or pay by the minute. The charge is always applied to the cabin (onboard) account.
• While using the VOOM Internet package, passengers can switch between various mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops). However, the number of devices connected at the same time is limited by the Internet plan.
• The cruise ship also has several Internet workstations available for all passengers on an FCFS basis (first-come, first-served).

Among the cheaper alternatives to the VOOM internet are connecting onboard (while the cruise vessel is in ports of call) or ashore (in restaurants, bars, etc).

RCI's shipboard Internet tips and information

The VOOM Wi-Fi ("Wireless Internet Access") service is provided for all wireless devices with WiFi capability. Wired Internet service is provided in some shipboard venues (Internet Cafes) where for passenger use are available Internet-connected computer stations.

To connect personal mobile devices (phones, tablets, laptops) to the ship's VOOM Internet, passengers need to first make a connection to the onboard "royal-wifi" network (on their personal device), then to open an Internet browser and register for a pre-purchased package.

Pre-cruise purchasing VOOM is recommended as RCI offers discount prices in comparison to the shipboard rates. To pre-purchase VOOM online, booked passengers must log in to "My Cruises", then go to "Cruise Planner".

Since 2017, the VOOM Internet is available fleetwide - meaning it's currently offered on all RCI ships.

Current Wi-Fi prices start at USD 15.99 per 1 device per day (Surf Internet/slower) and USD 19.99 per 1 device per day (Surf & Stream Internet/faster).

New Internet packages cost (2021 prices)

RCI's ship internet offering was revamped from only one plan into different per day packages with pricing based on the number of included devices. Two new packages are currently available for booking.

All below listed unlimited Internet package prices are "Cruise Planner" booking rates and include the 30% pre-cruise booking discount. Packages can be purchased on the ship and also pre-purchased (before the cruise) via RCI's "Cruise Planner" booking system.

"VOOM Surf Voyage" Internet package

"VOOM Surf Voyage" is the "light package" providing high-speed Internet for general web browsing, emails, and social media platforms (excepting video streaming).

The "VOOM Surf Voyage" package cost (per day) depends on the number of mobile devices using it.

VOOM Surf pricing is as follows: $16 (1 device), $15 (2 devices), $13 (4 devices) and $23 (Single Day Pass per device / per day / 24-hours).

"VOOM Surf + Stream" Internet package

"VOOM Surf + Stream" is the "real deal", offering unlimited Internet activities, including high-speed video streaming (music, movies, video chatting, texting, VoIP apps /Internet phone calls).

The "VOOM Surf + Stream" package cost (per day) also depends on the number of mobile devices included.

VOOM Surf + Stream pricing is as follows: $20 (1 device), $19 (2 devices), $17 (4 devices) and $30 (Single Day Pass per device / per day / 24-hours).

Occasionally, Royal Caribbean offers VOOM package discounts for passengers with pre-purchased online (via "Cruise Planner") internet packages. Discounts are also offered for Royal Caribbean loyalty program members (by the "Crown and Anchor Society" program) when the VOOM package is purchased on the cruise ship.

Note: Keep in mind that Voom speeds vary by deck location (depending on usage) and also by the ship's location (at sea, near shore, in ports) as different satellites are used in different regions around the world. The fastest internet (O3B) is provided to ships located between 45°S-45°N latitudes, which excludes regions like Alaska, Canada, Australia-New Zealand, Northern Europe, South America. Ships operating in regions more distant from the equator are usually provided with Internet from geostationary satellites.

VOOM Internet discount prices (2021)

Since 2018, RCI offers Internet discount deals for Diamond and above loyalty program members ("Crown and Anchor Society" program). These deals are available fleetwide and on all cruise itineraries.

• Passengers must be Diamond, Diamond Plus or Pinnacle status "Crown and Anchor Society" members.
• The full-voyage VOOM Internet package must be purchased on board.
• The pre-paid VOOM package (booked online / via "Cruise Planner") must be priced USD 15,99 pp per day (1 device) or higher (VOOM Surf and VOOM Stream).
• The discount is applicable only if the VOOM package is purchased on day two of the cruise.

Next, are listed the full-voyage discounted Internet package pricing compared to the regular (below Dimond level past members) package prices.

Full-cruise 7-night itineraries Internet prices and discount pricing

• Shipboard (regular pricing) 7 days x USD 19,99 = USD 139,93
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 116,94 / for 7 days)
• Pre-cruise online purchasing (via "Cruise Planner"): 7 days x USD 15,99 = USD 111,93
• Internet package purchasing shipboard on 2nd day: 6 days x USD 19,99 = USD 119,94
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 96,95 / for 6 days)

Full-cruise 9-night itineraries Internet prices and discount pricing

• Shipboard regular pricing): 9 days x USD 19,99 = USD 179,91
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 156,92 / for 9 days)
• Pre-cruise online purchasing (via "Cruise Planner"): 9 days x USD 15,99 = USD 143,91
• Internet package purchasing shipboard on 2nd day: 8 days x USD 19,99 = USD 159,92
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 136,93 / for 8 days)

Full-cruise 12-night itineraries Internet prices and discount pricing

• Shipboard regular pricing): 12 days x USD 19,99 = USD 239,88
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 216,89 / for 12 days)
• Internet package purchasing shipboard on 2nd day: 11 days x USD 19,99 = USD 219,89
• Shipboard (Diamond members discount pricing): - USD 22,99 (total USD 196,90 / for 11 days)
• Pre-cruise online purchasing (via "Cruise Planner"): 12 days x USD 15,99 = USD 191,88

Diamond members Internet discounts varry between 9,6-28,8% (based on itinerary length). Next are listed VOOM Internet discounts as percentages (based on cruise length) for Diamond members, As you can see, best deals are for shorter voyages.

• 4-night itineraries: 28,8%
• 5-night itineraries: 23%
• 6-night itineraries: 19,2%
• 7-night itineraries: 16,4%
• 8-night itineraries: 14,4%
• 9-night itineraries: 12,8%
• 10-night itineraries: 11,5%
• 11-night itineraries: 10,5%
• 12-night itineraries: 9,6%

On February 14, 2018, RCCL and Speedcast (global comm and IT service provider) extended their relationship by increasing the satellite bandwidth delivered across RCI's fleet. This parterning started in 2006, when Speedcast installted its first "Ku-Band VSAT" antenna. Multiple antennas on each cruise vessel deliver seamless transfer between Ku-Band and C-Band. The company's network provides fully managed connectivity solutions and IT services to a total of 37 RCCL vessels. These enhanced communications are used for onboard administration, as well as by passengers, crew and land-based employees.

At the following CruiseMapper links, you can compare the onboard Internet package pricing on Carnival and NCL vessels.

Is the Voom internet on Royal Caribbean cruise ships really as fast as they say?

The "fastest internet at sea" isn't as fast you might hope.

As I found during a recent speed test, Royal Caribbean 's Voom internet service, which the line touts as the fastest internet service in the cruise industry, is still far slower than what you're probably used to at home.

But the service still is a lot faster than internet service on cruise ships used to be just a few years ago. And it is, indeed, faster than what many of Royal Caribbean's competitors offer.

I put Royal Caribbean's Voom internet service to the test on board the line's 3,114-passenger Adventure of the Seas last week as it restarted departures in North America for the first time in 15 months. The ship was sailing from Nassau in the Bahamas to the line's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay , and Cozumel, Mexico .

Unveiled in 2001, Adventure of the Seas is the seventh-oldest of Royal Caribbean's 25 vessels, and -- as I'll explain below -- that's a factor in the internet speeds it's able to offer.

Royal Caribean's Voom internet service doesn't operate at the same speed on every one of the line's vessels. In general, Royal Caribbean's newer ships have faster internet speeds.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

How internet works on cruise ships

I'll get to the results of my speed test on Adventure of the Seas in a moment. But first, a little primer on cruise ship internet.

If you haven't cruised before, you may be surprised to learn that internet on ships generally is not free, as it is at many comparable resorts on land. Indeed, it's often quite expensive -- more than $20 a day on some lines. You easily can spend more than $100 a week on internet services when on a ship just to hook up one device. You'll pay even more if you want to have multiple devices online at the same time.

Internet on cruise ships also generally is far slower than what you've experienced on land. Where I live in North Carolina, the local cable company's least-expensive internet package promises download speeds of 200 megabits per second (Mbps) -- and the company, Spectrum, actually delivers a bit more than that to our location. You can pay just $20 more a month and get 400 Mbps, which is truly fast.

On a cruise ship, you'll be lucky to get download speeds of 5 Mbps.

Before you rail against the cruise lines about the cost and speed of what they offer, know that they're doing their best. They know you want fast internet on ships like you have at home, at an affordable price, and they are trying everything they can to make internet at sea faster and less expensive. On that front, they've made great strides in recent years.

But the bottom line is delivering fast and inexpensive internet to people on ships that are on the move in the open ocean is neither easy nor inexpensive. Remember that there are no high-speed cable lines reaching out to moving cruise ships, or line-of-sight transmitters that can reach them (except when they are close to ports). When you're getting internet on a cruise ship, you're getting it via a very expensive satellite system that's designed to be compatible with a moving target like a cruise ship that may be traveling at 20 miles per hour or more through bouncing waves.

When you think about it that way, it's really quite astounding we get internet at all when at sea.

Royal Caribbean's Voom service at a glance

Royal Caribbean offers two versions of its Voom internet service on ships:

• Surf is a less expensive service designed for general internet browsing and checking email but does not support streaming.
• Surf + Stream is a more expensive service that's touted as fast enough to stream movies and music and do many of the other things you would normally do over the internet.

What does Royal Caribbean's Voom internet service cost?

Rates for Royal Caribbean's Voom internet service seem to be always changing. But on my Adventure of the Seas sailing, the basic Surf service cost $17.99 per day for a single device when booked on board. The upgraded Surf + Stream service cost $22.99 per day.

The rates above are per day based on buying the service for the entire cruise . You can't get these rates if you just want internet access for a single day. My Adventure of the Seas sailing was seven nights in length, so the $22.99 per day cost of the faster service worked out to $160.93 for a single device for someone who booked it on the first day of the cruise for the entire trip.

Note that if you wait a few days after boarding to buy the internet service, you just pay for the remaining days of the voyage. In addition, at certain status levels in Royal Caribbean's loyalty program, the Crown & Anchor Society , you can get a discount on the packages.

You also often can buy a single-day pass for Voom on board at a significantly higher per-day cost than the multiday rate above. On my sailing, a single day (24-hour) pass was $25.99 for the slower Surf service and $32.99 for the higher-speed Surf + Stream service.

The above rates apply to those buying internet service on board. But that's not necessarily the best way to do it. One way to save considerably when buying internet service for a Royal Caribbean cruise is to buy it in advance of your sailing through the line's website. That's what I did, and I saved more than $30 for a week-long Surf + Stream package.

I paid just $128.73 for a week-long Surf + Stream package by booking it in advance on the Royal Caribbean website. That works out to $18.39 per day -- a 20% discount from the onboard cost.

You'll find a place to purchase internet and other services for your sailing on a Royal Caribbean cruise at the Royal Caribbean website. You'll have to create an account at the website and log in to reach the "cruise planner" section for your sailing to purchase such services.

How fast is Royal Caribbean's Voom internet service?

As noted above, I purchased the faster of Royal Caribbean's two Voom internet options, the Surf + Stream service, so that's the only one I was able to test.

I ran speed tests many times during the sailing, at different times, using the website speedtest.net both on my laptop and on an iPhone. What I found was that the Surf + Stream service usually offered download speeds of just around 3 Mbps. The upload speeds typically were around half that amount. But it varied at times.

Here, a speed test I conducted at 11 a.m. on June 14 when Adventure of the Seas was docked at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Below is another speed test I did later the same day after Adventure of the Seas had departed Perfect Day at CocoCay and was sailing in the open ocean on its way to Cozumel, Mexico.

As you can see, both the download and upload speeds for the Voom internet on Adventure of the Seas at this point were slightly better than they were a few hours earlier. But they still were in the same basic range.

At no time during the cruise did I find download speeds exceeding 4 Mbps. But at times I found the download speed dropped as low as 1.5 Mbps.

Here is a speed test that I conducted at 9 p.m. on June 13 as Adventure of the Seas was in the open ocean near the Bahamas.

In comparison to internet speeds at resorts on land, the speeds I measured above may seem excruciatingly slow. But I found the Surf + Stream service on Adventure of the Seas did allow me to stream movies, as promised. I was able to continue my recent binge-watching of "Downton Abbey" on Netflix (hey, no judgment!) at bedtime on most nights.

There were a few hiccups, however.

On two nights of the cruise, I lost the internet connection completely for a spell. The second time this happened, toward the end of the cruise as we were sailing between Cozumel, Mexico, and the Bahamas, it was down for many hours. I also found the "Downton Abbey" drama with the lords and ladies Grantham got a little grainy at times, and I had a few buffering issues one night.

Netflix says the minimum speed required to stream is 0.5 Mbps. Netflix recommends 3 Mbps for standard definition streaming and 5 Mbps for high-definition streaming.

But, in general, Voom's streaming promise was met -- particularly in the one area where I really needed it to count. I was able to participate in an important, 45-minute staff meeting on Zoom while the ship was docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Factors affecting Voom speed

Royal Caribbean's Voom service is generally faster on the line's newer vessels, which were wired from the beginning with higher-speed internet in mind. These would include the new Quantum Class and Oasis Class ships .

It's also faster on some older Royal Caribbean ships that have undergone "Royal Amplified" overhauls in dry dock that have included upgrades to the internet systems.

Royal Caribbean's Voom speed also can be affected by where a ship is located at any given time, and also by the weather -- both factors that can affect the connection to satellites.

Bottom line

If you're new to cruising, you might find yourself shocked at the price for internet on a Royal Caribbean ship. On a per-day basis, Royal Caribbean's fastest Surf + Stream service is about 10 times more expensive than the typical cable internet service in the United States. You also may be shocked by the slow speed of the service. At around 200 Mbps, my $60-a-month cable service at home in North Carolina, for instance, is about 65 times faster than what I experienced on Adventure of the Seas -- quite a difference!

That said, for a cruise ship, the Voom service on Adventure of the Seas and other Royal Caribbean ships actually is quite fast. And it lived up to its billing as a service fast enough to let you watch Netflix movies and shows at sea.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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• Cruise Advice

Overview: Royal Caribbean’s Wi-Fi Packages & Smartphone App

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• April 20, 2022

More than ever, cruise passengers want to have their various smart devices and laptops on hand. They do this because they want to be able to message friends, post on social media, and catch up on the latest episode of their favorite TV shows.

Indeed, Wi-Fi is important in everyone’s lives. So in this article, we’ll go over the internet packages in Royal Caribbean to help you decide which is right for you and give you an overview of the cruise line’s handy-dandy smartphone app, which you can use for your convenience.

Royal Caribbean internet packages

Royal Caribbean offers two different internet packages to choose from: Voom Surf and Voom Surf & Stream. Deciding which Wi-Fi package is best for you and your family will come down to what you want to do on board.

Log into your Cruise Planner on the Royal Caribbean website to purchase a package. Note, however, that Royal Caribbean’s Wi-Fi pricing is not fixed; it varies depending on the ship, itinerary, and the number of devices used. The more devices you add to the package, the cheaper the per-device, per-day cost will be.

If you already have a cruise booked, log into the Cruise Planner to see exactly what each package will cost for your sailing. Remember that purchasing ahead of time will be cheaper compared to purchasing it on board.

The Voom Surf package is the cheaper, more restricted version of Royal Caribbean’s internet packages. It includes browsing the web, sending and receiving emails, and chatting on messenger apps such as WhatsApp or Signal.

For Voom Surf, you can expect to pay around $13-$16 per day for one device. This is perfect for non-busy people. Should you want faster internet, though, this package is not for you.

Voom Surf & Stream

Royal Caribbean touts its Surf & Stream package as the whole internet experience. Faster speeds and the ability to stream make this the better option for those who will be spending more time online.

This package includes everything the Surf does, as well as the ability to live stream and post on social media; stream movies, TV shows, and music; and video chat.

As an estimate, Voom Surf & Stream will cost you around $18-$20 per day for one device.

The above price estimates are based on buying Wi-Fi for the entire cruise; you can also purchase a 24-hour pass for around double the per-day price.

MORE: Carnival Cruise Line WiFi Prices And Plans Detailed

Royal Caribbean App

Royal Caribbean’s smartphone application is available on Apple’s App Store and the Google Play store. The app is free to download, and it is recommended that you download it ahead of your cruise.

Features and functions of the app include, but are not limited to:

• Cruise check-in
• Begin the mandatory muster drill
• Activity schedules
• Chat with friends and family onboard
• Restaurant menus
• Restaurant, activity, and entertainment reservations
• Book shore excursions
• Track your onboard expenses
• Keep track of the ship’s time

You must not purchase an internet package to use Royal Caribbean’s app.

READ NEXT: 9 Cruise Concepts That Didn’t Quite Catch On

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17 Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips for First-time Passengers, According to Experts

Here's how to maximize your Royal Caribbean cruise, whether it's your first or fifth time on board.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruise

If you’re shopping for a traditional cruise, chances are you’ll consider Royal Caribbean. The household name among big-ship cruise lines is the second-largest carrier on the seas (after Carnival). It has 27 ships in its fleet, including the new Icon of the Seas , the world’s largest cruise ship, with room for 7,600 passengers. Another four mega-ships are under construction. Even Royal Caribbean’s smallest vessels hold more than 2,400 passengers, so by any definition, they’re big.

If you’ve never sailed with Royal Caribbean, it can take a while to learn the ropes — nautical reference intended. And since your vacation time is precious, we asked some cruise line experts how to make the most of your first voyage. Here are their tips and tricks for first-time Royal Caribbean guests.

Don't wait to book.

It’s a piece of advice that goes for most cruise lines. Matt Hochberg of Royal Caribbean Blog , a fan and information site that's not affiliated with the company, says to book your Royal Caribbean cruise “as early as possible — as in now. It’s not like airfare where you can wait on the chance that prices will go down. Cruise prices stay where they are and only go up, and right now, demand is as high as it’s ever been. Your best bet is to book as early as you can, like 12 to 24 months out, to lock in the lowest price.”

Make show reservations in advance, too.

“Would you show up in New York for a theater weekend and simply cross your fingers and hope you get tickets to the shows you want?” asks Rob Clabbers, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel . The answer is probably not, so use the "Manage My Cruise" feature on the Royal Caribbean website and book the shows you don’t want to miss. “You’re more likely to get the reservations you want and you’ll avoid having to scramble for seats or stand in line on your first day on board,” he adds.

Study the ship layout before your cruise.

If you’re like me, the anticipation of a cruise is half the fun. Use the weeks and months before your sailing to study deck plans and hone in on your favorite amenities. The largest Royal Caribbean ships are like small cities — the Icon and Oasis class ships even have their own neighborhoods. If you already have your bearings before embarking, you’ll waste less time riding the wrong elevator or wandering the wrong deck when trying to get to your destination — or back to your stateroom.

Get a jump on online check-in.

As soon as you book, access the "Manage My Cruise" portal on the Royal Caribbean website (the Royal Caribbean app has some of the same features). Then, as soon as online check-in opens, get right on it so you can secure the earliest possible window. “It makes the cruise terminal experience way faster,” says Hochberg. “About 30 days in advance, they’ll give you a check-in window. Arrive right around that time and you’ll breeze through — you don’t even stop moving.”

Opt for a drinks package.

You won’t go thirsty on a Royal Caribbean cruise, but free drinks are limited to standard coffee and tea, tap water, hot chocolate, milk, and a few other basics. Everything else costs extra — often a lot extra. “Even if you don’t drink alcohol, it may be worth checking out the options in advance, if you’re into premium coffees, sodas, juices, or bottled waters," says Clabbers. “Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions on the ‘Manage My Cruise’ [portal] that may save you money on certain beverage packages.”

Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on.

“Royal Caribbean ships have so many great pools and water features,” says Hochberg. And they get really crowded. Get ahead of the other passengers by packing a swimsuit in your daypack or carry-on. You can enjoy the pools, water parks, or the popular FlowRider surf simulator while you wait — often several hours — to access your cabin. “Embarkation day is one of the best times to go to the pools,” Hochberg adds. If you’re traveling with kids, you'll be glad you stashed those suits in your bag.

Splurge on a suite.

“Royal Caribbean ships can feel large and busy, so maybe you want to upgrade to a suite,” says Clabbers. Most suites start at around 300 square feet and go up from there — both in dimensions and price. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a suite, but the additional space may offer a welcome break from all the hubbub on board. Clabbers adds, “Depending on the category and ship you choose, you may enjoy suite-only restaurants and lounges, VIP treatment and embarkation, and even Royal Genie butler service.”

Asses how much drinking you’ll really do.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package — the only one that includes alcohol — follows a dynamic pricing model between $56 and $105 per day, per person, with prices varying depending on the ship, itinerary, and other factors. Alcoholic and soft drinks are expensive on board, but you still have to indulge a lot to make the package worth the investment. If you’re not sure how much you'll drink (and don’t want to feel obligated to do so simply because you’ve paid for a package), consider going a la carte for the first few days of your cruise. You can always add a drinks package later, as long as you still have at least four days left on your sailing.

Find your place in the sun.

If you want a poolside lounge chair, you'll have to arrive by 10 a.m. at the latest on most Royal Caribbean ships, according to Hochberg. “People who sleep in and roll up at noon are not getting a chair by the pool,” he says. That said, the ships do have plenty of outdoor space, even if it’s not right by a pool. “If you just want to be outside, there are other chairs. Walk to the front or back of the ship. The further away you are from the pool, the more chairs you’ll find,” he adds, noting the promenade deck on any Royal Caribbean ship is always a great spot to read.

Consider a balcony cabin.

Like most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean is adding more balcony cabins and suites on its ships, and that’s, of course, due to customer demand. “Balconies are the most popular option,” says Hochberg. Though they cost more than an interior or non-balcony room, they’re still reasonably priced compared to suites. Hochberg adds, “They offer more space and fresh air, and if you do get seasick, the view and fresh air help.”

Choose an older ship.

If your vacation is more about the destination than the journey, you should consider an older, smaller Royal Caribbean ship, especially given the demand for their newer Oasis and Icon vessels. Radiance and Vision classes are among the oldest and smallest in the fleet, but still offer plenty of big-ship amenities without the “city at sea” feel. Hochberg calls these ships “much more manageable,” to the point that you probably don’t even need to make show or specialty dining reservations in advance — though you might still want to book once you’re on board.

Look for no-kid zones.

Royal Caribbean is a family-friendly cruise line — there are a slew of facilities and programs made just for kids. But if you prefer a more adult experience, Royal Caribbean offers options. “Certain areas are adults-only, such as the casino and nightclubs,” says Hochberg. While bars and lounges technically allow children to enter, he says it’s rare to see kids in these areas in the evening. Later dinner seatings also mean fewer young kids. Almost every ship in the fleet offers the Solarium, an adults-only section with a pool and whirlpool, a sundeck, and a bar. On the brand’s private Caribbean island playground, Perfect Day at CocoCay , Hideaway Beach is the adults-only pool and beach, though entrance is for a fee. Hochberg also says that “on longer sailings — those past seven nights — the amount of kids drops precipitously.”

If you can’t snag a show reservation, try walking in.

Because booked passengers scoop up show reservations as soon as they’re offered online, you may not get your first choice when it comes to the many show offerings, which include ice-skating performances, aqua theater, and Broadway-quality productions. But don’t give up, says Hochberg. “Show up at least 30 minutes before the show, even if it's sold out,” he says. “You’ll almost certainly be able to get in, as people blow off their [advance] reservations.”

Cost out The Key program.

Clabbers says Royal Caribbean cruisers should look into The Key program , the paid upgrade that’s akin to the Genie+ service at Disney theme parks. “It provides priority boarding access, a welcome lunch, high-speed internet access, fast lane access to onboard activities, private time at the FlowRider surf simulator, dedicated theater seats at shows, and other niceties.” Prices fluctuate, though, so before you purchase, compare the cost of The Key versus that of Royal Caribbean’s Voom Surf & Stream internet package. If there’s not much difference in cost (remember, it’s per user, per day), The Key benefits are worth springing on. However, if there’s a big price difference — or you want to disconnect during your cruise — you can skip The Key.

Look into third-party excursions.

Shore excursions must also be reserved in advance, and depending on when you book, you might not get your first choice of activity or time slot. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay on board or near the port all day. “Of course, Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions wherever they go,” says Clabbers. “But if you like more options and potentially smaller groups or lower fares, take a look at excursions offered by third-party providers.” Clabbers likes Shore Excursions Group and Project Expedition . “If you prefer private [excursions], Context Travel offers cultural and historical tours and activities in cities around the world.”

BYOB — to a point.

Perhaps you don’t want to buy a beverage package, but you’d like to have a glass of wine or two during your cruise. Royal Caribbean lets you bring one 750-milliliter bottle of wine per cabin guest, per cruise, and for many light drinkers, that’s plenty. Don’t try and bring more than this, and don’t put it in your checked luggage — it will be confiscated and returned at the end of your journey, as will any alcohol you buy in ports of call. You can also bring up to 12 containers (bottles, cans, or cartons) with up to 17 ounces each of soft drinks per stateroom. If you bring your bottle of wine to a restaurant or other public area, you’ll be charged a corkage fee.

Skip the transatlantic cruise if you're a first-timer.

Transatlantic repositioning cruises are not ideal for first-time Royal Caribbean passengers, according to Hochberg. “Transatlantic cruises are like a fine wine. Once you’re more acclimated and know you like the shipboard experience, they offer great value priced per night,” he says. But you don’t want to get on board and find that you don’t like the brand, or worse, don’t like cruising. “They are long cruises with lots of sea days, and are very susceptible to the weather.”

Related Articles

What is Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

R oyal Caribbean Cruise Line is known for its enormous cruise ships, filled with exciting amenities like zip lines, FlowRider surf simulators, bumper cars, and observation pods. When you are planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, you may wonder what is included in your cruise fare. It can be confusing to figure things out, especially when you are faced with a menu list of “add-ons” that you can purchase.

This post will help you figure out what’s included in a Royal Caribbean cruise, and what you may need to purchase separately. Keep in mind that the ships and itineraries vary, so you’ll want to get complete details for your specific sailing.

Disclosure: I’ve sailed on Royal Caribbean at no cost for several media trips and have also paid my own way. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Compare prices on your next Royal Caribbean sailing here.

Items that Are Included in Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

Your stateroom.

When you purchase your cruise fare, the biggest difference you’ll see in price is in the type of stateroom that you select. There are lots of different options, including interior staterooms, balcony staterooms, and suites .

I typically recommend getting a balcony if you can, because you are likely to use it. It’s always so nice to spend time on the balcony, reading a book, or just watching the waves.

On Royal Caribbean, the Oasis-Class ships (like the Wonder of the Seas and Allure of the Seas ) have another type of balcony. These balconies don’t face the ocean but instead face either the balcony or Central Park.

Suites come with a whole selection of benefits, including a concierge, separate boarding lines, WiFi, access to the concierge lounge, larger and more deluxe staterooms, and the option to dine at Coastal Kitchen. They are more expensive but can be a great experience.

Interior cabins are typically the cheapest. They can be a good deal, but only book an interior stateroom if you know you won’t want/need the balcony.

Depending on how booked your cruise is, you may receive a “RoyalUp” offer. With this, you’ll have the opportunity to bid for a stateroom upgrade. It’s totally optional and there’s no guarantee you’ll win the upgrade. If you do win, you are automatically upgraded.

We bid and won a RoyalUp bid on our sailing on the Odyssey of the Seas. We were able to get a suite and had concierge access, for less money than we would have paid had we booked it initially. If having a suite is important to you, however, it’s best to just book it in advance.

Included Dining on Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has some delicious food, and much of it is included in your cruise price. Complimentary dining options include the main dining room, as well as some other dining venues. These complimentary restaurants may include (and vary by ship):

• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento’s Pizza
• El Loco Fresh
• The Dog House
• Windjammer Buffet
• Solarium Bistro
• Coastal Kitchen (for concierge/suite guests)
• Dining locations at Labadee and CocoCay
• Room service (with an additional charge for service)

Unless you have a drinks package, you’ll pay for alcoholic beverages, as well as premium coffee. Ice water (but not bottled water), non-pressed fruit juices, iced tea, hot tea, lemonade, and brewed coffee are included.

When booking your cruise, you’ll be able to choose a dining time for the main dining room. There’s also the option of My Time dining, which lets you have a more flexible dinner time at no extra charge.

Entertainment and Activities Included on Royal Caribbean

Entertainment and activities on Royal Caribbean ships are top-notch, and most of it is included in your cruise fare. This includes Broadway-style shows, game shows, ice shows, water shows, comedians, live music, karaoke, trivia, and more. You may need to reserve your spot in advance, but generally these are complimentary.

While there’s always a lot going on when on a Royal Caribbean cruise, I definitely recommend that you take advantage of the shows (especially the ice shows, water shows, and Broadway-style shows). These shows are among the best I’ve seen.

There are also lots of onboard activities that are included on Royal Caribbean. Like everything else, these vary by ship. But some things that you should expect to see include pools, hot tubs, water slides, fitness center, bumper cars, the North Star observation pod, mini golf, surf simulators, zip lines, ice skating, rock climbing wall, tennis/pickleball courts, and ping pong. You definitely won’t be bored.

Traveling with kids? Royal Caribbean also offers kids’ clubs. The  Adventure Ocean youth programs are available for ages 3 to 12 (with three different groups divided by age). There are also tween and teen programs. These are a great way for kids to meet other kids on board, and for parents to have some quiet time.

Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee

If you are visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee (in Haiti), you may wonder what is included. These private destinations do have some special offerings that you’ll pay extra for, but you don’t need to pay just to visit.

If you want to just walk off the ship and go to the beach, you’ll have lots of included options. You’ll also be able to have your lunch at the various locations. If you have a beverage package, you can use it at both of these destinations.

You are also to purchase add-ons for your day at these private destinations for an extra fee. Options include the water park and private beach club at CocoCay, cabanas, shore excursions, and more.

What’s Not Included on Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

Vitality spa on royal caribbean.

If you are looking for some relaxation on your cruise vacation, be sure to spend some time at the Vitality Spa onboard Royal Caribbean ships. Spa treatments are available for an additional fee. There’s also a fitness center located within the spa, and this is (for the most part) complimentary for cruisers.

WiFi on Royal Caribbean

Of all the cruise ships I’ve been on, I’ve found the WiFi signal on Royal Caribbean ships to be the most reliable. WiFi on Royal Caribbean is affordable, but it is offered at an additional price. Some cruisers, like concierge guests, do receive it for free, however.

Alcoholic Beverages

Like all cruise ships, alcoholic beverages on Royal Caribbean are offered at an extra cost, even in complimentary dining venues like the main dining room. There are ways to decrease the cost, however, like purchasing a drinks package – including a premium drinks package and the classic soda package.

If you are considering adding a drinks package to your sailing, you’ll want to do some math to figure out if it’s worthwhile. Cruisers who only have a drink or two per day may find it more worthwhile to just purchase drinks on an a la carte basis.

Pressed juice (where available, in the spa), and specialty coffees are offered for an additional cost.

The Royal Caribbean ships have large casinos on board, with plenty of tables and slot machines. If you choose to go to the casino, you’ll pay extra.

Specialty Dining

Royal Caribbean offers some phenomenal specialty restaurants, including Izumi, Wonderland, Chops Grille, Giovannis, and the Mason Jar (offerings vary by ship). These restaurants do have an extra cost.

There are different ways that you can pay for these experiences. There’s always the option to purchase each one individually. Or, there are add-ons where you can buy a package of specialty restaurants or even unlimited dining. These are a great way to save some money if you are planning on eating at several different specialty restaurants during your Royal Caribbean cruise.

The Royal Caribbean ships offer an arcade onboard, with all of the most popular video games. You’ll pay extra, by game, if you visit the arcade.

With all of these inclusions and add-ons, you’ll want to make sure you factor everything into the price of your cruise. Many of these add-ons can be purchased in advance, and you’ll often save some money by doing that, rather than purchasing when you are on board.

The post What is Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise? appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

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