Cruising with Royal Caribbean is an exciting and luxurious experience, but it can also be quite expensive if you’re not careful with your spending. One of the easiest ways to save money on your cruise vacation is by limiting your spending in the first place. While a lot is included in your cruise fare, Royal Caribbean offers a plethora of add-ons that you can pay extra for to enhance your cruise experience. However, it’s essential to distinguish which add-ons are worth the extra cost and which ones are simply a waste of money.
As someone who has gained experience in cruising with Royal Caribbean, I’ve learned which add-ons are a waste of money and what I can avoid spending on. By being mindful of where you allocate your funds, you can skip the unnecessary expenses and avoid getting a hefty bill at the end of your sailing. Saving money on unnecessary items not only allows you to enjoy other luxuries but also enables you to put that money towards your next cruise adventure.
One of the add-ons that I never pay for on a Royal Caribbean cruise is specialty restaurants. While it may be tempting to indulge in the extra-cost dining options, I’ve found that the complimentary cruise cuisine is just as delicious. The Main Dining Room and Windjammer offer a variety of tasty dishes that rival those served at specialty restaurants. By opting for the free dining venues, I not only save money but also have the flexibility to choose when and what I eat without the constraints of reservations and formal attire.
Another add-on that I avoid is extra-cost activities onboard. While Royal Caribbean ships offer a plethora of activities for guests to enjoy, not all of them come free of charge. It’s essential to check the prices in your Cruise Compass to avoid spending money on activities that may not be worth the cost. Instead, opt for the numerous free activities onboard, such as lounging by the pool, watching a movie, or working out in the gym.
Balcony staterooms are another add-on that I steer clear of to save money. While the allure of a private balcony may be enticing, opting for an interior cabin can save you hundreds of dollars. The cost difference between an interior cabin and a balcony cabin can be significant, making the former a more budget-friendly option. By choosing an interior cabin, you can explore more of the ship and enjoy the onboard amenities without breaking the bank.
Spa treatments are another add-on that I avoid on a Royal Caribbean cruise. The prices for spa treatments onboard can be exorbitant, making them a luxury that I can do without. Instead of splurging on spa treatments, I opt for other ways to relax, such as soaking in a hot tub or taking a nap in my cabin. By forgoing spa treatments, I can save money and still enjoy a relaxing vacation experience.
Onboard shopping is another area where I exercise caution to save money. The prices at onboard shops are often higher than those on land, making it essential to only purchase essential items or items on sale. Before making a purchase, consider whether you can buy the item elsewhere for a lower price. By being mindful of your spending in onboard shops, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and save money for other experiences.
When visiting Royal Caribbean’s private island, CocoCay, I refrain from spending extra money on add-ons. The island offers a plethora of free activities and dining venues, making it unnecessary to purchase additional shore excursions. By taking advantage of the complimentary offerings on CocoCay, I can enjoy a fun-filled day without incurring extra costs.
As a coffee lover, I’ve discovered that you don’t have to spend extra on Royal Caribbean coffee. While there are cafes onboard that serve specialty coffee drinks, the free brewed coffee is just as satisfying. By opting for the complimentary coffee options, you can enjoy a quality cup of coffee without the added expense.
Lastly, I avoid spending money on laundry services onboard to save money. Instead of paying for laundry services, I pack efficiently and re-wearable clothing to avoid the need for washing during the cruise. By being mindful of what I pack and how I care for my clothing onboard, I can save money and enjoy a more relaxing vacation experience.
In conclusion, saving money on a Royal Caribbean cruise is possible by being mindful of where you allocate your funds and avoiding unnecessary add-ons. By opting for complimentary dining options, activities, and amenities, you can enjoy a luxurious cruise experience without breaking the bank. With careful planning and budgeting, you can make the most of your cruise vacation and save money for future adventures.
