10 things I wish I knew about Royal Caribbean

[@blandsmith113]

Thank you so much for this info. I sailed on a 22 day Transpacific cruise and I took on a 12 pack of root beer and people kept asking where I got it. I told them that they are allowed 12 17 fl. oz. sodas, they were surprised and said they didn't know. I was nicknamed the "root beer" guy after boarding!!!! LOL!!!!!

[@nancyzahradnik6021]

We have been loyal to Royal Caribbean and so far we have been very satisfied for our last 16 cruises.

[@petermautner7348]

Your channel Don is always helpful and honest.Thank you.

[@JUANCARLOS-yl4rw]

I have pretty much done everything u tell us to do and they work beautifully thank you for your advice. All your videos are great.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you so much :)

[@aero5712]

Thanks for explaining what a Wonderful Cruise line Royal caribbean is! We still like Holland America lines, but are more anxious than ever to sail on Royal Caribbean..

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

every cruise line has something going for it :)

[@margaretharty1175]

Been on 12 with Rccl and loved every one. Been on 2 ncls and loved them . Been on the grand princess an loved it. Been on one carnival to Alaska and loved it . But overall rccl is our choice. If u cruise all deals and savings are available through cruise booking offices just ask

[@volfn780]

Love your new series. This one especially, going on the Allure in Sep. My 1st RCL cruise. Got all my shows booked the other day and used their new self check-in. Can't wait to see how that actually works once we get to the ship.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

you will love the self check in makes things very quick

[@Grisbi6]

Thanks for your tips, Don. You are a good, down-to-earth cruiser guide.

[@jimmyyance1566]

Hey Don. Can you discuss the new Key Program with Royal Carribean?Thank you for all you do to keep us informed.

[@bellicious205]

That's exactly what we do, too. We always get water or some kind of soft drink whenever we go back to our room. Especially in the mornings when people leave for their shore excursions, there are often long lines for water. Very informative video!

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

Thank you so much :)

[@MD-5817]

So you just picked up a bottle water while dining or from the bar? Which is free?

[@MD-5817]

And two bottles of wine per stateroom?

[@markp.7165]

Just returned from a RC Cruise and had a super time. The one thing and I mean one thing that pissed us off was the constant attempts to get us to eat in the premium dinning areas. One "Sales person" approached us several times attempting to sell us on doing so while we were eating breakfast. I was like enough already! If I'm going to spend extra money on food it isn't going to be on the ship where I already paid for the food once. Instead we choose to eat lunch or dinner while on shore at local establishments. It was just a negative that is uncalled for.

[@ernatischler3687]

Still doing this. Hated this nickel/diming strategy they were constantly promoting. We sailed the Baltic in June and on our first day we were approached about the fantastic premium drink package for 2 costing $495 for a 9 day sail. Seemed reasonable to us so we signed up, given a receipt. The receipt given to us is the important part of this fiasco. Half way through the cruise we checked our cabin statement and there was a charge for $750 for the premium drink package not the $495 we were told. Speaking to the purser then the food and beverage manager we were told that a mistake had been made and nothing could or I should say, would be done. We took up this mistake with head office when we were back home, and after several days of phone calls, the customer service representative stated that after seeing our receipt hand written on Royal Caribbean stationary was forged by us!! Never will we step foot on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship again. Extremely the worst customer service ever!!

[@ilovesparky13]

Erna Tischler Wow that is beyond ridiculous!!! 😡😡

[@maureen9564]

Thank you for your advice. Royal Caribbean 2020 with 20 or so family members.

[@benita81]

Great tips, we booked earlier this year. Saved a good amount, also called a few weeks later and the price went down again. I'm looking forward to my first Royal Caribbean cruise 🙂

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

Always nice when the price drops :)

[@tourbusGP53]

You're the best Don! Congrats on the 12k subscribers too! Cheers!

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

Thank you, I am so thankful for everyone who has and is joining the channel such a thrill :)

[@VickyRBenson]

And now, two years later, his subscriptions are up to 89.2K. Phenomenal!

[@deniscoakley7342]

Thanks, Don, for sharing your wisdom, experiences, advice, and adventures. God bless you always.

[@michaellovastik6517]

I got plenty of cruises for next to nothing when booking with less than two weeks before the cruise....people canceled and they give the cabins away to have full occupancy

[@g.alistar7798]

Yep, but this strategy has disadvantages. Sometimes you wanna cruise and the price does not go down.

[@drac124]

Exactly. I didn`t believe on the first time I heard this (book years in advance). It works exactly like flights tickets. About 2 months its the best time. And weeks in advance is luck, but can get you great deals, but of course is risky. But years in advance? What is the motivation for the company to lower prices years in advance? Paid tip for sure.

[@steventhorkelsen6478]

What type of prices were they and what did they drop to?

[@Nopi9]

@@drac124 forces other people to pay for more expensive rooms maybe. I’ve looked at cruises 6 months away and the exterior view rooms are all gone unless you get a suite

[@jackmortimer329]

Don, Thanks for a quality video on Royal Caribbean. I hope you produce more on RC in the future.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

I hope too also trying to get on an Oasis class ship before the end of the year

[@michellecollins4974]

I find cruisers get confused about the wine it is not two bottles per couple, not one person. It is two bottles per cabin. Regardless of whether there is one person in that cabin or 8. In China, they said leave my wine in my check in, as I didn’t want to carry it around until my room opened up. In Australia, the advice is that your suitcase will be held for personal collection if you leave your wine in your checked luggage.

[@Surberjm]

The further out rule is true, but if you live close to a port it is also true that they give dirt cheap prices the day of cruising, or a few days before because they're not making money off of those rooms. We've sailed with people staying in suites for the same price as staterooms because they live right outside the port. The first day is the cheapest to buy spa services, and such.

[@victorwashington7306]

Excellent information I'm considering Royal Caribbean next year Thanks for sharing

[@carolyngardner4999]

Victor Washington Let Don book it for you.

[@victorwashington7306]

Carolyn Gardner Thanks for the suggestion. I'll consider it

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

They have a lot of ships to choose from so make sure you find one that suits what your looking for :)

[@victorwashington7306]

Don's Family Vacations Thanks for the advice. Exploring now

[@Steve_in_NJ]

2 Things I learned: Book a cruise longer than 5 days so you can actually have a day or two At Sea to use the ship's amenities (never once sat at the pool on my cruise). Stay on the Ship when docked at a port like Nassau because going ashore in the Bahamas is a waste of time. My one and only cruise was back in 2005 on RCCL Majesty of the Seas and I had fun but hated the ship. Of course, this was before Oasis class ships were even built. Still planning a 2023 cruise on Celebrity Apex. Plan on booking after our trip to Hawaii in 2021.

[@michaelmaskell5363]

went ob 'EXPLORER OF THE SEAS' on a Pacific Island 11 day cruise, fantastic first cruise, great staff and entertainment. Even though it was fully booked never had a problem with long lines, easy to attend entertainment, so much to do, never had time to do everything, food was great. Definitely will cruise with them again.

[@richardeickenhorst1377]

Thanks Don for the tips on the water. I have a cruise next month on Royal Caribbean

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

nice have a fantastic cruise what ship?

[@richardeickenhorst1377]

Mariner Of The Seas

[@QualityChildcare1]

Thanks for the heads UP Don! I bring my own 22oz bottle and I drink water, water water.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

I try to drink as much water as I can too keeps me from over eating too much :)

[@michaelmaskell5363]

actually they don't allow you to bring on water, just get the premium soft drink package and get the water like Don said (you can get 2 bottles at once), you are also covered for premium coffees. I don't drink alcohol, but do drink soda, which is all the coca cola line of soda.

[@QualityChildcare1]

lol! No, I bring my empty 22oz bottle and fill it up with water on the ship. I am not a soda drinker and I won't get enough drink for the drink package. Good idea though...Thanks!

[@balzirus]

Thanks Don Royal Caribbean is the company I was thinking of booking with this was very informative learned a lot great video.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you :)

[@chrisachrisa9873]

Thanks again, Don! Hope you are having a great week.

[@g.alistar7798]

Book early and book while aboard on an Royal “Next Cruise” office. Why, low down payment, refundable, generous on board credit and the best price. RCI sometimes does a BOGO at 50 or 60% off. Travel agents don’t get that price....except perhaps a last minute option.

[@nygrasshole]

Fun fact to add Don. Once you’re within “penalty”, prices are not changeable. They can offer you an upgraded stateroom level, but there’s no refund of money once within the penalty. This was factual when penalty was within 75 days of sailing. Not sure if it has changed with penalty generally starting earlier now. Great video! Did RCL last summer but I’ll stick with NCL! They’re my fav

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thanks for the tip

[@MD-5817]

Can you explain what you mean by Penalty?

[@LearnToCompound]

Great new series I’m going on my first royal cruise and this video was very helpful

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you :)

[@triniboy7933]

Thanks for the heads up You keep doing your thing mann

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

will do :)

[@henryblairwood9725]

Hi Don, Have you ever been to Bermuda if so could you make a video on it? Thank you!

[@joekirkland8042]

As always very informative video Don ! Love watching you. Cheers from Ottawa

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thanks Joe :)

[@peteleminkt1392]

I have just got off the Navigator and now have B2B X3 April 2019.

[@spoonerpurple]

Thanks Don ...yeah that flow rider idea just scares me ...ill stick to my roller skates

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

skates or blades? I'm showing my age again. I use to do the whole roller rink thing complete with rainbow suspenders lol

[@Shortcake39553]

New subscriber, Thanks for the video. Going on my FIRST Caribbean Bahamas cruise in January.

[@valerief1231]

I feel like I’m going to be well trained for our group cruise by the time April rolls around.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

lol I'm trying :)

[@Dangic23]

I could never book that far in advance. The most I can do is 3-4 months ahead.

[@pamelasasser6630]

Thanks Don...Royal Oasis Class is on my to do list!! We are doing Carnival this year and I think Princess next year , maybe Royal in 2020?

[@bonnieperry2983]

Great info, love your videos. Your looking well, hope you are doing well too. Have a great day. 😊💜

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

Thanks Bonnie I'm doing great hope you are too :)

[@bgregg55]

the abyss slide looks like a hoot.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

and it's nice it's not a water slide so you can go down without having to change

[@upholdsanity3759]

Keep it going Don. Enjoy your videos!!

[@michellecollins4974]

In Asian waters, royal Caribbean charges for North Star and ifly. In Australia, they do not. I believe these activities are limited to one booking per activity per cruise however.

[@suelovescruises4219]

glad you can still bring wine at least

[@MrRamyon74]

I booked 12 months out it was supposedly a bargain, then the price dropped about 9 months out by about $1,000 per person.....lost my no refund deposit but was still better off to re-book....As I understand it in America it's much easier to change not so in Australia or New Zealand.

[@leeenglandland2978]

I am based in the UK and we cannot book shows in advance, been told by RCI that it's on a first come first serve basis for the evening entertainment.

[@angelinedixon8987]

We logged in to our cruise planner and we booked all our activities/shows there for our upcoming cruise in 2 weeks on harmony of the seas.

[@justwatching190]

What happens is those with reservations must show up 15 min early,then it’s first come first serve.

[@marionwhite1250]

We have the drink package and wondering if we can bring back beers to the room, more than 1. At the pool you can order a bucket can they be brought back to the room

[@annjordan7501]

Great new series Don Awesome!!👍🏻🚢😎

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you :)

[@claydinnc1]

So when you make reservation for a show do you choose your seating then or is it first come first serve for the front rows

[@AcuRemedy]

Don, I was looking at the water package for Royal and they are so expensive for bottle water. I think it was like $39 bucks for 12 bottles. Haha. Maybe because it's Evian. Torn if I should get it for my family because we got it on our last cruise on Carnival and it was so useful (and also much less pricey). :)

[@michaelmaskell5363]

get the soda package and do like Don says, get the premium soda package if you are a premium coffee drinker, you can get 2 bottles of water at a time.

[@beckysutherland2065]

I got the lowest price beverage package for my upcoming cruise in January. It includes coffee, tea, water, nonalcoholic drinks, I like virgin margaritas. That way I can get all of the things I drink and I don't have to worry about it. Another good tip is to have your room steward keep a bucket of ice in your room, if you want it. And to take out the mini bar if there is one so nobody uses anything from it because it's so expensive.

[@Grisbi6]

All cruise lines will give you a good experience. Just book a balcony suite.

[@ItsJason412]

Can you do an update video on how St. Thomas and surrounding islands are doing after hurricane Irma and Maria?

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

I will see what I can do

[@kailaleegibbons6143]

The Le9end I went to St Thomas in November, right when the port reopened. There was heavy damage but the locals were very friendly and accommodating and the beaches were stunning. They depend on tourist traffic to make money to rebuild. We stuck with a cruise excursion to ensure safety. Hope this helps.

[@sandramartin6770]

Thanks Don! Our first RC cruise is in September and this was very informative and helpful.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

glad you liked it :) have a great cruise

[@liesbethdelandsheere7225]

Hi Don, really liking your videos!! Lizzy, Belgium

[@evehsv5556]

Thanks for the tips Don awesome.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

glad you liked them :)

[@RTD1947]

Great job Don!!!!

[@rllapte]

I was directed here when I Googled "Keystone Kruisers" and clicked the Feelin Lucky button.

[@erleenwilmen7667]

My hubby can not get time off that far out.

[@tomsparks6099]

Thanks for this BUT...forget about getting into the bumper car ride or ice-skating (total clusterF and you will waste an entire day waiting)-- and because seas were rough, they cancelled the free first-time I-Fly, hence after that, IF you could meet the restricted time slots, again, you wait (for an hour of tutor, and 1 second of time) . To me, these offereings on RC are ploys that will cost you and not worth the bother. (not that great, either -- really).

[@shamsulal-tomal7739]

Should you pay extra to go on an Oasis class ship or just go to the regular Freedom class? Can you make a video explaining the pros and Cons to help make the decision?

[@rogerdodger8415]

How many cruises have you been on?

[@shamsulal-tomal7739]

Roger didit , we went on a carnival cruise in 2016 , one Royal Caribbean in 2017 and going on a NCL cruise in December 2018.

[@rogerdodger8415]

@@shamsulal-tomal7739 OK. The reason I asked, (and this is just my opinion) is that at first, it's all about the destination. You say WOW look at the white sand and blue water. These little port towns are soooo cute. But, after 5,10,15 cruises, you're use to the beaches, and town is no big deal. But, now, it's the on board that you're looking for. I and my wife are going in April on the Symphony of the seas, because of the boat! We might get off and hit the beach for a little bit, but the fantastic boat is the draw for us. But, that comes at a price. They know everyone wants to go on because it's the world's biggest boat, so it's hard getting a good price. Right now, we booked because it's the black friday/holiday prices, plus booking so far in advance. We got a decent (not great) price. So I think that you decide.... Is It destination (nice boat) at a cheap price or the boat (fantastic boat) at a higher price. We spend a LOT OF TIME on that boat, so for us it's worth the extra for all the cool things to do. Good luck.

[@florramillano6988]

Hi don! Can you talk about the river cruise? Thank you

[@bgregg55]

We never had any problem not reserving the shows on the oasis. The only venue we could not just walk in was the comedy club & only because its pretty small.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

I have been turned away twice but I did see the first show and just wanted to see it again later in the night :)

[@Surberjm]

In December, we had seats reserved for us (our genie saved them for us) in the ice show, and it was packed. They were turning people away when we showed up and met our genie who shuttled us through a crowed of angry faces.

[@bgregg55]

I have to admit I skipped the ice show & that venue entirely. I'd seen some of it on youtube & it didn't really interest me much.

[@Surberjm]

bgregg55 there's a reason it's always a full house. They're great performers.

[@CreachterZ]

Are there any limitations to how large those two bottles of wine can be?

[@gregoryjacob624]

750ml

[@g.alistar7798]

Yep, and only two bottles even on a 15 day transatlantic cruise....rats!

[@goldie8eight]

Very helpful ! Thank you.

[@ustophl]

Don, I took 2 RC cruises this year on Allure and did book all my entertainment in advance, however, I've just booked a cruise in Jan and another in Feb, both on Adventure (which I prefer), but can't find any early booking for entertainment on the cruise planner. Is the advance booking just for the Oasis class ships?

[@stevenjohnsrud4655]

Loved your flow rider day dream. Thank you Don.

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

lol thanks :)

[@AisforAlibi1]

What is a water package? Do you have to have to take a shower or wash your face or is this all about drinking water?

[@mxgryan]

Good info, thanks.

[@taylorference2206]

Hey Don, I'm going on a Bermuda cruise in October through Royal Caribbean. I've never done a cruise where we are in the same port for more than one night. We will be in King's Warf for 3 days. Are there any videos or tips for overnight port stays?

[@rogerdodger8415]

Find a man.

[@brickgrandma]

How do I make reservations for the show on the Anthem?

[@ChiTsang]

good update, thanks

[@lunavlogs2778]

Hi Don when you said book ahead the shows you mean online before the cruise or when you get there

[@michellekarch]

I have the same question

[@BakedTatoes]

Love your videos Don

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you so much :)

[@willytwo53072]

Can you only book entertainment onboard the ship or can you book it online before you sail? It is currently locked out for my Feb 2019 sailing.

[@MikeBaxterABC]

Great info!!!

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

thank you glad you liked it :)

[@debbiebrooks1293]

Can you bring your own water on Royal Caribbean?

[@RonCGooglePage]

Good to know.

[@kmart014]

have you been on Symphony of the Seas?

[@MissKarma1000]

Hi Don I experienced my 1st RC cruise last May 2019 - AWESOME (Symphony) I went with a group of coworkers and it was booked by the Group leader. I’m going again and am trying to book it on my own but I’m not understanding the lingo about ocean view balcony statesrooms?!? Why am I at the mercy of the cruise line as to where on the ship and the floor I want to be on 😩Help need clarity

[@billc6762]

What is Water Package?

[@rosieb4746]

You are looking great!

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

aww thank you Rosemary :)

[@daricej9753]

I have watched every episode of Golden Palace

[@Chippy_The_Chipmunk]

it's all absolutely "free" (see fine print)

[@tiaragrace]

so...I can't bring a six pack of water in my carry on?!

[@mistamilk4883]

Don how do I book a cruise through you

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

Hi there, you just need to email me. the info is below all my videos :)

[@socalgal714]

I'm still on the fence about a cruise. Maybe a small ship, but definitely not one of those big ones like depicted at the beginning. How do those big tall ones not tip over?

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

heh heh not only do they not tip over but they are much smoother on the water than smaller ships.

[@michaelmaskell5363]

Try the RC 'VOYAGER' class ship only 3500 passengers and not overcrowded, I went on 'EXPLORE OF THE SEAS' and loved it, a nice sized ship with plenty to see and do, good kids club, great for families and nice staff (1500)

[@g.alistar7798]

I like the smaller ships....meet more people. Big or small, none of this 500-800 million dollar ships tip over. Was on the Harmony outta Fort Lauderdale sept, 2018. Came back from Cozumel in the wake of hurricane...bumpy for about seven hours but no way that ship tips over. Very smooth sailing.

[@LearnToCompound]

YAY! 12K subs

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

I know crazy right so thankful to everyone

[@VickyRBenson]

And now it’s 89.2K! Two years later!

[@lamper2]

how about: DON'T BUY ART ON A SHIP?

[@tomsparks6099]

Don;t. Period. Trust me.

[@dwalker6868]

Got it👍🏾

[@kylemorgan4560]

I would say that unless you think you'll drink Bout 4-5 (alchohlic) or 6-7 (non-alcoholic) drink on board each day. A drink package is not worth it. Take into consideration how much time will be spent off the ship as well. And on top of that. At all meals, coffee, teas, and water are always complimentary. And you can access those beverages at all times. And for breakfast juices are included as well. So really count the costs before you pay for the package. Especially the non-alcoholic drink package. Is having unlimited soda really worth ~$25/day/guest? Probably not.

[@tonyhinojosa7710]

I swear KZbin has gotten greedy with their fkn ads. "Your video will play after the ad . . . Just kidding!! ANOTHER AD!!" Then the ad breaks during the video. Seriously KZbin!? WTF!?

[@markfreeman9944]

P&O Don?

[@enriquemartinez4790]

There's a Blog is called Royal Caribbean blog. Com

[@sheismymom]

what's cookin' good lookin'

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

living the dream lol

[@sharkboy8me938]

Another great video not even 30 seconds in it

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

lol thank you :)

[@HappyBuddhaBoyd]

None of these apply specific to RC. So why did you title it that way, implying that they were different from other cruise lines?

[@UniqueUR]

5

[@ajrocks12x]

18 -24 months out?! You must be kidding!

[@thethirdversionofalex3398]

Anthony Rock My family booked a cruise 4 cruises before we went.

[@markrubin9449]

Royal Caribbean is launching a new cruise ship. It's going to be called, " Cattle Car Of The Sea". It will board 18, 500 passengers and feature cabins with room for 15 passengers (with one bathroom). Love overcrowding? This is for you. Everything is at extra charge and reservation must be made in advance if you want to walk on the promenade deck.

[@papigrande1971]

so wine is not an alcoholic beverage? lol

[@djaftermath4313]

This is something I don't understand. Why in the heck can't you bring water on board (something you need body wise) but you can bring wine or sodas? I guess they figure we know the passengers need water, so we'll bend then over and make money off of them. That's just cold blooded 😂😂😂😐

[@Donsfamilyvacations]

lol the reason they give people were smuggling booze in the water bottles and resealing the tops. The real reason is they can sell water for $2.50 a pop

[@markp.7165]

Just returned from a RC cruise and they never said a thing about us bringing water on board from any ports of call. We did it every time along with soft drinks on a couple of occasions.

[@djaftermath4313]

Mark P. Thanks for the info. On there website, it says no non alcoholic beverages. I'll definitely bring water, sodas, and other sodas with alil "kick" added in 😳😊.

[@hugh639]

They are worrying for your heath safety and 5 thousands other passengers, food bones illness is no no on the cruises ships.

[@g.alistar7798]

You can get water at most venues. Bottled water....not so much.