Truly, investing has changed my perspective on how one can succeed in life; working multiple jobs isn't the optimal way to attain financial freedom and unfortunately, we discover this later in life. Currently earn as much as $10K weekly and this has improved my financial life. Thanks to Fergus Waylen!
I'll advise you to work with a financial advisor.....Building a good investment portfolio is more complex so I would recommend you seek Fergus Waylen's support. This way you can get strategies designed to address your unique long/short-term goals and financial dreams
Wow. I'm a bit perplexed seeing him been mentioned here also Didn't know he has been good to so many people too this is wonderful, i'm in my fifth trade with him and it has been super.
I'm right there with you on the drinks and dining packages...the deluxe drink package is good if you AREN'T diamond status. But once you hit diamond or higher, your free drinks makes the deluxe drink package less worthwhile. Still might do the refreshment package to get coffee, soda, bottled water and the like though... Dining package is a no-go for me - I'm not the most adventurous eater and I don't eat seafood. So I find better value in picking a couple lunches and booking those for $20-30 and using the MDR, Windjammer, Park Cafe, and Sorrentos for other meals/snacks.
To me, the drink packages are too expensive, especially when funding for the family. However, on our Wonder cruise just two weeks ago, the bars were selling 10-drink cards for $90. My son, daughter, and I each bought one. That's a $5 discount per drink, and the cards can be shared. That's a great deal for people who don't drink a lot.
I think it makes sense to cut back on the extras if you are cruising 11 times a year (unless you are wealthy), but most of us don't cruise that often (I have only cruised 10 times in my life, mostly on RCCL). Since I don't cruise that often, I have no problem adding the drink package and dining package. They enhance our experience and I'm not willing to pass on these to save a few bucks. YMMV.
Honestly I never did see the value of any of the drink packages, including the soft drinks. On a 7 day cruise I might have 4 or 5 acholic drinks so off the top that was a nonstarter for me. Even before I gave up processed sugar I still might only of gotten a couple of shakes and the one time I did get the soft drink package I found myself ordering a pop just because I had the package & not because I really wanted a pop. As far as the dining packages go I'll determine that on a ship by ship basis. My next cruise in September is on an older ship with fewer options so on that one I'll just save my money. However if I book a cruise on one of the newer ships I'll rethink it.
I've never bought a drink package and now you can bring two bottles of wine one per person when I can make lemonade in the dining room no drink package for me however I'm going to try Hooks Seafood on Symphony of the sea in May happy cruising🎉
Coffee in the morning then later in the day for us lovers, that’s $12 right there. 8 bottles of water $20+ right there, now you can add any coke drinks plus Pellegrino and you’re above now winning.
Our strategy has always been to book cruises early. If the price decreases, RCI will honor the decreased price. Also, when we hit Diamond status, we quit buying the drink package. We rarely exceed our 4 drinks per day anymore, but if we do it is still much less expensive. We also take advantage of many of the other perks offered. The UDP is costly and simply too much of a good thing. If we decide to purchase a dining package, we typically buy Chops + 1. This July we are taking our 4 grandchildren on a 5-night cruise. We plan to take advantage of many of the free amenities geared towards families. We are booking only one excursion. The cost for 6 people is almost $700. I think the grandkids will be content staying on the ship during our second port day. The pool will be less congested, the slides and Flowrider more accessible.
Night swims are the best! Seriously, I think I spend more time in the pools and hot tubs at night lol... Less people, no sunburn, usually a movie/music/lightshow off some kind going on. One of my favorite things to do before bed!
For 2024, my resolution is to take a non-charter Royal cruise. The one a chose is a huge one - 19 days from Honolulu to Sydney on Ovation in October. I'm hoping for the best.🙏
I like your drink idea but I wouldn’t recommend for a lot of people. My girlfriend and I compared per drink pricing with a package and discovered that we could save around 500 dollars by going with per drink pricing. That includes getting coffee, morning smoothies, and cocktails along with other drinks throughout the cruise. If you’re considering the package I’d do the math and see what works for you.
On my upcoming RCL cruise in May, I am actually going to spend more time on ship, during a port visit. It will give me and my Gf, a chance to enjoy the amenities on board, and not have to wrestle for spots, such as the hot tubs or pool decks. Thisis a great topic. Me and my partner, always talk about things yo do different, to enjoy the cruising experience, after each one.
Yes.. my Mom did this on her last cruise. She said the ship is great when everyone's outside. The only downside is most of the food options are limited when the ship is basically empty.
Love 1st tip. We just reserved a RC Cruise for April 2025 and expect to save at least 50% from booking it 90 days out. In fact, the cruise we're taking this April is now about 63% higher today than when we booked it last year. We use Cruisebound, which allows a free 7-day hold, and they promptly provide refunds when the price drops. Trains are smart with no daily parking fee - we take MARC or Amtrak from DC to Baltimore + short UBER to Baltimore Port Terminal. Trains mean no daily parking charges. Agree about Dining Package - we may eat at one specialty restaurant for our upcoming cruise. Thank you Matt for recognizing that some cruisers have to economize. LOVE THIS VIDEO!
Hey I’m looking at booking a cruise for March 2025 and I’m just curious how much you booked your cruise for. I haven’t gone through with my decision just yet but when I checked the price for a balcony room a few days ago I believe it was 844$
The drink package was not created to save money, or even be a "good deal". It is strictly a convivence and piece of mind sorta thing. It is nice grab a drink whenever you want it, to be able to try things you normally would not order and to not get pissed when the bartender (or robot) messes up a drink. For those reasons, I will continue to purchase the drink package, even if it is way over priced. RCL charging $15+ a drink now... out of their damn minds. Dining Package on the other hand, not worth anyone's time. There is "free" food options everywhere, and the specialty dining rooms don't offer better food, just a nicer experience. Prices in the dining rooms are also stupid, more expensive on the boat than at home.
We try and book 18 months out. If we know where we want to go and it is available that long out, we book. Our travel agent says all the time, “good thing you booked this early because the price has increased”.
Please make a or some detailed videos of your gambling experiences onboard. Be very interesting to see your thoughts on it compared to what I've heard from others.
This is this so interesting we never pick the unlimited dining package as the ships that come to Australia don't have that greater selection for restaurants. I do however pre-book lunches at Jamie Oliver's restaurant if it's available on the ship that we are sailing, to save a little bit of money because the portions are exactly the same as dinner and it's just as delicious for lunch as it is for dinner and then you go to the wind jammer for something like for supper. I also have never bought the alcoholic drink package. Some of the cocktails are extremely boozy and the same price as the lighter cocktails and so if I really want to get lit I'll just buy one of those however, if it is on sale, I will get the soda package only if the ship has the American style soda on it. Otherwise I don't think it's worth it. I sailed last on brilliance of the sea and had the soda package and it wasn't until day 3 that I realised I don't have any idea on how to actually claim my soda so I got a refund and just stuck too the available drinks
i remember when i went on symphony back in 2022, my friend and i would go to the hot tub in the solarium at, like, nine or ten and just talk and/or watch anime. after we were done, we would put on our cover-ups and head to sorrento's for a late-night snack. maybe you could see if your kids are interested in something like that? late-night pool/hot tub and pizza!
I’m done with cruises. I was on the Wonder of the Seas after being on Harmony in 2017(ish) and I was disappointed to no end. The food- mediocre unless you have a dinning package? I mean Winjammer just had the same bland stuff on both sides…no fish option that tasted decent. The steak was a prime rib with no seasoning and it was just awful. The MDR didn’t have my favorite classic selections daily yet always had weird Indian food option every night - (Indian food is ok but give me American or Korean BBQ or something different ) There was always a wait for dining and although I was on my time dining - the host wanted me to schedule a reservation for the next day to dine lol. (My time dining should be - schedule at your time a few days prior dining) Drinks- expensive, I must say I will never ever again get the drink package. After calculating how much i spent I saw that I could have just bough whatever I wanted to drink whenever I felt and the amount paid towards (a room full of deluxe packages) didn’t even come close to what I would have spent a la cart. Beer was about 8-12$ while liquors and cocktails maybe 14-15$ Entertainment - the most boring shows I have ever witnessed EXCEPT the ice skating show (I’ll give credit where credit is due). HOWEVER, the use of drones for a light show and just really weird performances really left my group….bored. Experience - my first time cruising was with Royal Caribbean was amazing and I was treated like royalty every where I went on the shit. This time was different…everything was rushed. I had a few items I requested (medical stuff) in my room and it wasn’t there. My personal key card didn’t work embarking and disembarking the ship so I had to go to guest services twice to get it fixed. I only got one key card for our stateroom somehow instead of everyone having their own as well (I did all the pre boarding stuff online). The ports - it was cool, I don’t book excursions through the cruise line anymore because it’s just too expensive - $100 for zip line 1 time per person? lol lol lol Coco Cay was nice but the water park was way overpriced on the already expensive cruise and again, food was like something out of an elementary school kids top 5 picks (hot dogs. Burgers. Vanilla ice cream. “juice”) Room service - we charging for breakfast food room service now? Sheeesshh I thought this cruise was all inclusive. The ship itself is nice but there was just so much more lacking on that cruise compared to an ALL Inclusive resort at another country. I don’t feel like the money is worth it to cruise anymore without good food, good entertainment, and good service which were all once the staples of why I would take 10 days off a year strictly to go on a vacation. It’s sad honestly, but I think I really am looking forward to other cruise lines as an alternative to “Royal” Caribbean
I still will cruise Royal, but I get your complaints. I traveled on Wonder this year and I can see how people don't like it. Its maybe too big for a lot of people and because of it, the personal attention just isn't there. Also, I wonder if they are still having post-COVID staffing issues. I was disappointed when almost every dining option closed at 9pm. But just an FYI - you got a lot of "kid" food options because these new big cruise ships (Icon, Wonder, etc) are being marketed to families. I took the Thanksgiving cruise on Wonder and there were a ton of under-18s onboard. This is the demographic the cruise companies want because they generate more revenue.
My to do this year is stop being afraid to travel especially cruising, I listen to all the bad things that's happening and just don't want to do or go anywhere not even out to a movie. So in 2024 we've planned a cruise with the family, my husband asked me to stop listening to all the horrible cruise news channels 😑 because I almost wanted to cancel our cruise this is a big number 1 for me, I still have things to work on but I'm hopeful ☺️
I just had to cut watching the news out of my life. It’s hard at first because I want to know what’s going on, but it has helped so much with my mental health. 🙏
I booked May 31, 23 after I got off Anthems of the Sea May 1, 23 for Symphony of the Sea May 16, 24, and thanks for the night swim reminder. I haven't done it in years👏🏽👍🏽 I'm still trying to book for 2025 for Hawaii not sure what cruise line Royal Caribbean reposition to itineraries that I don't care to visit. I guess it might be NCL unless I can come up with the funds for Winstar or another upscale Cruise Line. Happy cruising💃🏽
Unless you have a room full of kids, or you're a drunk, the drink package was always a rip off. Also, the train is more convenient. But just remember if god forbid there's a problem on the train, then you're screwed.
Went on a 4 night RC cruise was curious if the drink package was worth it for me and my wife. We both got it and it was worth it. I looked at the statement to see how many drinks we charged and it was 93 total 😂😂😂
Love the night swim idea and the rock wall idea! We have a cruise coming up in March and our son would love if we did these activities as a family. And although the pricing has gone up for the drink packages and specialty dining, we don't partake in the spa, so these two splurges we will be keeping.
Brightline questions: did you park at the train station? If so, what do they charge? Did you go down the day of the cruise or a day early? I really want to do this for our cruise out of Ft. Lauderdale in May.
Brightline only works between Orlando and South Florida. They weren't smart enough to build a Port Canaveral terminal so it's not really an option from Orlando or MCO (Orlando Airport) out to Canaveral. The Brightline station is down at the Orlando airport so if you're taking the train from Orlando to South Florida, you have to park somewhere at the airport like you're flying out of town for a week. It's an option, but does have pitfalls.
“Not smart enough” isn’t really fair. The main goal was to get the MCO terminal open & connected. Brightline achieved that. Unfortunately, they aren’t running as fast as originally advertised, probably because Florida Man keeps thinking it’s better to try & beat the train rather than wait 30-45 seconds for it to cross the road. Price is a bit more than hoped for too, not bad for an individual, but can get pricy for a family. They have bought land in the Cocoa Beach area, and there are rumors of a station coming there. I’m sure they have considered proximity to Port Canaveral in the location, because that port continues to grow. There may be a station near Ft. Pierce area too in the future. I guess the big question is will that happen before the challenging push through Orlando down to Tampa. A lot of it comes down to local municipalities and planning/zoning. But the fact they finally achieved something that was discussed getting on for 20 years ago, I’d say that’s commendable.
@@moodybluesU2 how anyone could go through the effort of building out a rail line from South Florida and have it go right by Port Canaveral but then not put a terminal at Port Canaveral is beyond me. Common sense would seem to dictate you do whatever you have to do to get the rail to be able to stop at Canaveral. If that means additional bridges have to be built, raise the money and build them.
@@moodybluesU2 It's just hard to explain away how you could build a rail connection up the east coast of Florida, get that close to Port Canaveral, and then turn west like..nope..none for you today...
Just DONT rely on brightline to announce the right train!! I just missed a cruise because they said the south train was approaching but it WAS NOT it was the north train. Igot on and was stuck 2HOURS to orlando waited an hour then 2 HOURS BACK missing my cruise out of miami. Im in a wheelchair so i rely on help getting on with a ramp they have to put .😢
Like your ideas on booking early and casino deals as a drink package option. I can't speak for RC but if you get their attention, NCL will give you at least a 20% discount on the cabin along with the drinks (but only in the casino). If things go real bad for you, you might get a free inside room. All-in-all, and if you're mindful of your gambling, it's pretty close to the same price but with some added fun. Good luck to you for a super fun 2024.
Funny, I have the same challenge ahead of me this year. Multiple cruises already booked and I get my diamond drinks. Plus I already have prime. I’m going to see if it’s possible that I don’t need to buy the Deluxe drink package anymore. I do love that convenience though. But why do I feel stressed out not having booked it at the lowest price 😂
You said your not much of a gambler. At 11 cruises you would have to average 227 points or $1,136 (if playing slots, double that on tables) on each of those cruises. Is there a secret or tip to get up to 2500 points without moving $12,500 in 1 year?
My wife and I cruised on Serenade of the Seas for 14 nights in November 2023, Panama Canal cruise. During that cruise, I was able to gamble enough to reach Prime status. This is beneficial to me because I like to indulge a little while on the cruise ship. After all, I'm not driving and my wife does not drink. I usually pay per drink when I want on the cruise as a result. We are booked for Oasis of the Seas on April 2014. I am looking forward to not needing to pay per drink this time. By the way, this booking is our "free" cruise for being a Prime member. I say Free because we did have to pay for port fees, taxes, gratuities. I splurged a little and bought the Key this time around to try it out.
More B2B cruises! No more unlimited dining packages as it is too much food anyways. Look for more excursions not thru the cruise line to get some variety. Being a older solo traveler, I feel safer with the RC excursions but have found many cities are great on my own.
We look forward to trying the Brightline train in 3 weeks for our trip on Icon. I'm not sure it's a better deal though as costs are about the same for 2 people and much more for 4 ($140 R/T for each person for coach plus luggage fees). in the last week or so there were two deadly accidents in Melbourne when cars were on the tracks so, just like the turnpike or 95 - there's no guarantee of clear sailing from Orlando to Miami or Lauderdale. We'll post our experience after our trip. I really hope it's a great experience. I would prefer not to make that drive.
Could you do a video with a more in depth explanation on why everyone thinks that booking early is better than last minute. Every CruiseTuber on YT says that, but I have been tracking it for a long time and in my experience it just doesnt seem true. Perhaps theres something I'm missing, or not accounting for. Is there any way you could go more in depth on how you (and seemingly everyone else) keeps arriving at this conclusion?
I have 4 cruises on the books with 3 being the newest RCL ships. I reserve the first "moment" they become available to book. However, I do not book the first several cruises so the kinks can be worked out, or if the ship begins sailing in the summer, I wait several months as I don't cruise in the summer, unless it is Alaska. (Well, I would love to do another Med cruise someday, in the summer)
Hey Matt, I also want to do the rock wall but also the Flow rider. My other change is to take a NAP. I couldn't believe how exhausted I got on Oasis last year!
Fantastic video. I agree with the notion that drink packages and the dining package just aren't compelling at these current prices. It'd be good if RC offered an alcoholic drink package that was not unlimited. And the way that the description of the dining package on the RC website is written does not seem enticing. It's as if RC is nonchalantly throwing it out there, take it or leave it. Doesn't do a good enough job answering questions.
Have recently gotten into solo cruising, Booked a cruise in Oct 2025, going to try a suite for the first time. Booking nearly 2 years ahead of time allows me to parse out the payments of the trip making it easier to afford the more lavish stateroom. I usually buy the refreshment package as a sober individual, once I hit diamond later this year I'll be ditching that as well. I've never done the UDP, it just never seemed like a good enough deal to even both with. I've always enjoyed the MDR, even with the changes to the menu. The only tips I have for eating is to book a specialty restaurant on embarkation day for lunch. It is a much more chill way to start the cruise. Then for dinner on the final night I get another one. Sort of bookend my cruise experience with fine dining.
With the only cruise I'm going on being Icon, my wife and I plan to try and do some stuff after dinner. Almost every night after dinner we would maybe take a short walk around and then return to our cabin and call it a night. Maybe one night per cruise we would have something like our couples massage, or sit in a hot tub. But this year we're planning on going to the Jazz Club, or the Dueling Pianos. Something to try and break our shell. Also helps this'll be our first cruise as Diamond members and will have the drink vouchers to use. Though neither of drinks alcohol, so it'll be a little more challenging then most other people.
Tip #2 is one that I always offer up! I turned diamond about 6 months ago and have been prime in the casino for the last 2 years. Since becoming Prime, I have not brought a drink package 🎉😅! I'm also not an all day drinker but have gotten some other good tips to stretch out the Prime benefits. If you like a particular alcohol, order shots neat and dump them into a Yetti type cup. Order cans of sodas with them as well (I'll usually get 2 at a time). This can easily yield 6 drinks. Also, order a few bottles of beer and ask for them unopened. This can easily get you through the day until the casino bar opens. Also order bottles of waters from the bar. They come in handy for port day. Now that I have diamond vouchers, they carry me the whole day. It's definitely doable Matt!
Thank you for the idea of a night swim. Our family too talk about it but for the same mentioned reasons never do it. I think it’s time to jump in to the pool after dinner instead of bed!
We used Next Cruise in March 2023 to book a family cruise for December 2024 (2 staterooms, 5 adults). Still 9 months away and the current price is nearly $5k greater than what we booked 18 months in advance!
We like to end all of our cruises with a Night Swim - more specifically in the hot tub - it is so peaceful and almost never is there other people there. It's the perfect way to end a cruise for us.
Question, we are on sympathy of the seas next week, our first royal cruise and we have the 3 day dining package and I know it says we are allowed up to 20.00 per day and alcarte places like playmaker’s, can we eat there every day and still get our 3 speciality restaurants?
I just had my 1st cruise experience...Christmas...Royal...I did not care for the main dining food, but I did enjoy the French onion soup in the main dining room...interesting you showed that dish...
Truist Financial Securities recently upgraded their rating on Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) to “Buy”. 18 Wall Street analysts have an average rating of “Moderate Buy” with a high estimate of $160 representing a +30% increase from the last price of $122.49. 🚢 🚀
I've been on two Royal Caribbean cruises. I learned something very valuable that I don't intend to repeat. NO MORE GIGANTIC SHIPS. I loved the Majesty of the Seas, one of their "small" ships that fit me perfectly until they sold it off. I was also aboard the Liberty of the Seas and won't do it again--on a ship that size or bigger. Something that I also learned is that the food in the buffet and the MDRs is average. Their chocolate desserts need to upgrade flavor-wise.
We love casino comps!! Free drinks and free cruises...SIGN US UP!! We are both Prime casino status, so free drinks. Plus, we will do 4 comped cruises this year (2 with suite upgrades) and we get so many offers for more free cruises, but we still work full time and can't squeeze in any more time off. 😢
The NCL included drink package that cost around $20 a day (gratuity) is the only package I would get. We could only drink 6 to 7 drinks 🍹 a day max, good value on NCL. 😅
There are some many awesome places to see and many ways to vacation. Us regular people that don’t cruise as much as you or not as high in the loyalty status as you probably won’t give up the drink package, lol.
But, you CAN cruise more if you do NOT get the drink package. I have only ever booked an interior cabin and have never gotten the drink package. Spending HALF as much money on each cruise has enabled me to go on TWICE as many cruises, as I would have done otherwise.
For me, the dbp has to be less than about $65/day for me to feel it's worthwhile. I did just make Diamond on my last cruise, so on my upcoming 4/3 back to back, I'm forgoing the deluxe given the increased costs for those cruises, I'll easily save even if I have to supplement the 4 diamond drinks.
The drink packages are HIGHWAY ROBBERY!! Plus, even then, they put a "limit" on how many drinks you get from that package per day. Another thing, if you travel with your spouse, partner, SO, etc...and you are a drinker and they are not, we were told that you BOTH have to pony up for the drink package, and the EXCUSE we were given was that RC is afraid people will try to pilfer and 'game' the drink system. Basically calling your customers dishonest and thieves turned us off ROYALLY (pun intended). Won't be cruising with RC again anytime soon.
We are Diamond now and have been questioning the drink package for the last couple cruises. We got it for Icon but have decided not to get it for our next sailing a few weeks after as a test. I am scared! Very very scared of cruising with no drink package. LOL Is there a RCB support group for others in this predicament? LOL
I love cruising but with all the price hikes, the nickel and diming, upcharges on more and more stuff, the over priced excursions if you book with the cruise line to guarantee you won't be left behind....I think it might be time to go back to a nice adult only all inclusive in the D.R. after my next trip on anthem of the seas
Thanks Matt!! 2 questions, I still have my WOW Band from Oasis last April, If I bring it on Harmony in May, can they recode it or do I need to buy a new one? And, Harmony, May 12-19, any chance seeing you on it???
Just did symphony of the seas. The drink package is a joke. Im a light weight when it comes to drinking. Half of a margarita in my favorite mexican restaurant does me in. I had 7 mixed drinks in one day and absolutely nothing! They didnt even phase me. Starbucks is not included in this pkg. There were very few coke fountain machines to fill cups and they only worked some of the time. We literally had to go to the bar and get cans of coke to store in our cabin fridge. Me and my husband spent 1000 bucks (and that was with 30% off) and it was not worth that to us at all. We will never do that again.
Hi Matt. I rarely see videos of Mexican Riviera Royal Caribbean cruises. We are taking our first cruise this October to the M-Riviera aboard Navigator of the Seas, and would like to see the do’s and dont’s. Thanks! BTW, you are the reason we booked Royal!
We have the icon in dec, that I booked when they opened , a balcony for $3145 for the 2 of us, probably half of what it is now. However looking at bright line for that cruise is running about $800 for the 2 of is, a bit high, ill probably go down but most Likely fly back. We also have something for 25 booked
Taking the train tomorrow 1/20 just like you , Orlando to Miami for our 6 day Western Caribbean. First time using a none NY train 😂 we are excited and hope it works well because I HATE the drive there
Matt question for you. I am schedule to go on a cruise with friends on grandeur of the seas on September 9-14 to Cozumel and wonder if they have Saturday night fever in the program. We thinking of dressing in costumes. Thank you
So Matt... you are admitting you wasn't taking your own advice by not booking the cruises far in advanced. We are trying the Brightline train for cruises we have out of Port Canaveral vs driving over. 5 hour drive can be a PIA. I would disagree about Royal stepping up on the included food options. The only exception is Icon but everything else is okay but not any different than a year or two ago. We still pay for dining package - usually a 3 night.
At 68 I tried RC’s rock wall 3x, I plan on doing it again on my fall cruise this year at 70. Go me!
Truly, investing has changed my perspective on how one can succeed in life; working multiple jobs isn't the optimal way to attain financial freedom and unfortunately, we discover this later in life. Currently earn as much as $10K weekly and this has improved my financial life. Thanks to Fergus Waylen!
That's awesome!!! I know nothing about investment and I'm keen on getting started. What are the strategies?
I'll advise you to work with a financial advisor.....Building a good investment portfolio is more complex so I would recommend you seek Fergus Waylen's support. This way you can get strategies designed to address your unique long/short-term goals and financial dreams
Wow. I'm a bit perplexed seeing him been mentioned here also Didn't know he has been good to so many people too this is wonderful, i'm in my fifth trade with him and it has been super.
My whole family living fine and my Dad is heading for retirement plan thanks to Mr Fergus Waylen .
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I'm right there with you on the drinks and dining packages...the deluxe drink package is good if you AREN'T diamond status. But once you hit diamond or higher, your free drinks makes the deluxe drink package less worthwhile. Still might do the refreshment package to get coffee, soda, bottled water and the like though...
Dining package is a no-go for me - I'm not the most adventurous eater and I don't eat seafood. So I find better value in picking a couple lunches and booking those for $20-30 and using the MDR, Windjammer, Park Cafe, and Sorrentos for other meals/snacks.
To me, the drink packages are too expensive, especially when funding for the family. However, on our Wonder cruise just two weeks ago, the bars were selling 10-drink cards for $90. My son, daughter, and I each bought one. That's a $5 discount per drink, and the cards can be shared. That's a great deal for people who don't drink a lot.
Was that a pre boarding deal or did you buy those cards on the ship?
Hello Jim! Didn't think I would find you here. Does your daughter drink at lot?
I think it makes sense to cut back on the extras if you are cruising 11 times a year (unless you are wealthy), but most of us don't cruise that often (I have only cruised 10 times in my life, mostly on RCCL). Since I don't cruise that often, I have no problem adding the drink package and dining package. They enhance our experience and I'm not willing to pass on these to save a few bucks. YMMV.
I agree! I don't cruise every other month. When I do cruise, I want my vacation to feel like a real getaway.
Honestly I never did see the value of any of the drink packages, including the soft drinks. On a 7 day cruise I might have 4 or 5 acholic drinks so off the top that was a nonstarter for me. Even before I gave up processed sugar I still might only of gotten a couple of shakes and the one time I did get the soft drink package I found myself ordering a pop just because I had the package & not because I really wanted a pop. As far as the dining packages go I'll determine that on a ship by ship basis. My next cruise in September is on an older ship with fewer options so on that one I'll just save my money. However if I book a cruise on one of the newer ships I'll rethink it.
I've never bought a drink package and now you can bring two bottles of wine one per person when I can make lemonade in the dining room no drink package for me however I'm going to try Hooks Seafood on Symphony of the sea in May happy cruising🎉
Coffee in the morning then later in the day for us lovers, that’s $12 right there. 8 bottles of water $20+ right there, now you can add any coke drinks plus Pellegrino and you’re above now winning.
@@tears2040 sorry but your math still ain’t mathing. It’s still not adding up to the cost of the drink package.
Yeah, the drink packages are tantamount to highway robbery.
Our strategy has always been to book cruises early. If the price decreases, RCI will honor the decreased price. Also, when we hit Diamond status, we quit buying the drink package. We rarely exceed our 4 drinks per day anymore, but if we do it is still much less expensive. We also take advantage of many of the other perks offered. The UDP is costly and simply too much of a good thing. If we decide to purchase a dining package, we typically buy Chops + 1.
This July we are taking our 4 grandchildren on a 5-night cruise. We plan to take advantage of many of the free amenities geared towards families. We are booking only one excursion. The cost for 6 people is almost $700. I think the grandkids will be content staying on the ship during our second port day. The pool will be less congested, the slides and Flowrider more accessible.
I always book early and reap the rewards of a cheaper price. I'm always able to get a suite for a cheaper price and enjoy the added benefits.
Night swims are the best! Seriously, I think I spend more time in the pools and hot tubs at night lol... Less people, no sunburn, usually a movie/music/lightshow off some kind going on. One of my favorite things to do before bed!
If you haven’t been in the hot tub late enough where they are cleaning the deck at night you aren’t doing it right 😂😂🎉
We stopped taking the drink package when we became eligible for the 4 free drinks per day. It's just not worth the extra expense.
How do you become eligible for that?
@@bingobecky1564 status. When you become diamond you get 4 per day loaded onto your seapass, D+ gets 5, I do not remember what pinnacle gets.
Agreed! Between the 2 bottles of wine we bring in board, plus 4 drinks a day, we really don't need more than that.
@@bingobecky1564it's a perk starting with the Diamond level of the Crown & Anchor program. 😊
You're not a real drinker
Bingo...by booking ICON back on the day the bookings were announced in Oct. last year, we have saved more than $5k! Book early is our rule!
For 2024, my resolution is to take a non-charter Royal cruise. The one a chose is a huge one - 19 days from Honolulu to Sydney on Ovation in October. I'm hoping for the best.🙏
I like your drink idea but I wouldn’t recommend for a lot of people. My girlfriend and I compared per drink pricing with a package and discovered that we could save around 500 dollars by going with per drink pricing. That includes getting coffee, morning smoothies, and cocktails along with other drinks throughout the cruise. If you’re considering the package I’d do the math and see what works for you.
Braggers.. *Sigh* alright for some to do multiple cruises per year.. I love cruising too but im lucky to get 1 in per year
Matt driving may be cheaper BUT you missed one major point. PARKING!!!
rock wall... do it.... swim with the kids, when they get older they will not do it
On my upcoming RCL cruise in May, I am actually going to spend more time on ship, during a port visit. It will give me and my Gf, a chance to enjoy the amenities on board, and not have to wrestle for spots, such as the hot tubs or pool decks. Thisis a great topic. Me and my partner, always talk about things yo do different, to enjoy the cruising experience, after each one.
Yes.. my Mom did this on her last cruise. She said the ship is great when everyone's outside. The only downside is most of the food options are limited when the ship is basically empty.
Try the solarium after dinner. It’s a ghost town. Especially if you have the 8 pm time slot.
Love 1st tip. We just reserved a RC Cruise for April 2025 and expect to save at least 50% from booking it 90 days out. In fact, the cruise we're taking this April is now about 63% higher today than when we booked it last year. We use Cruisebound, which allows a free 7-day hold, and they promptly provide refunds when the price drops. Trains are smart with no daily parking fee - we take MARC or Amtrak from DC to Baltimore + short UBER to Baltimore Port Terminal. Trains mean no daily parking charges.
Agree about Dining Package - we may eat at one specialty restaurant for our upcoming cruise. Thank you Matt for recognizing that some cruisers have to economize. LOVE THIS VIDEO!
I agree. We’ve booked for March 2025 🐨🐨🦘
Hey I’m looking at booking a cruise for March 2025 and I’m just curious how much you booked your cruise for. I haven’t gone through with my decision just yet but when I checked the price for a balcony room a few days ago I believe it was 844$
Night swims are great! Definitely a good way to spend an evening on a cruise.
The drink package was not created to save money, or even be a "good deal". It is strictly a convivence and piece of mind sorta thing. It is nice grab a drink whenever you want it, to be able to try things you normally would not order and to not get pissed when the bartender (or robot) messes up a drink. For those reasons, I will continue to purchase the drink package, even if it is way over priced. RCL charging $15+ a drink now... out of their damn minds. Dining Package on the other hand, not worth anyone's time. There is "free" food options everywhere, and the specialty dining rooms don't offer better food, just a nicer experience. Prices in the dining rooms are also stupid, more expensive on the boat than at home.
We try and book 18 months out. If we know where we want to go and it is available that long out, we book. Our travel agent says all the time, “good thing you booked this early because the price has increased”.
I'm heading out in a couple of hours to fly to my next cruise, TOMORROW! XD Super excited
Hope it went well
Please make a or some detailed videos of your gambling experiences onboard. Be very interesting to see your thoughts on it compared to what I've heard from others.
I’m doing the Mediterranean next year! Spain, France and Italy.. in the spring 😊
This is this so interesting we never pick the unlimited dining package as the ships that come to Australia don't have that greater selection for restaurants. I do however pre-book lunches at Jamie Oliver's restaurant if it's available on the ship that we are sailing, to save a little bit of money because the portions are exactly the same as dinner and it's just as delicious for lunch as it is for dinner and then you go to the wind jammer for something like for supper. I also have never bought the alcoholic drink package. Some of the cocktails are extremely boozy and the same price as the lighter cocktails and so if I really want to get lit I'll just buy one of those however, if it is on sale, I will get the soda package only if the ship has the American style soda on it. Otherwise I don't think it's worth it. I sailed last on brilliance of the sea and had the soda package and it wasn't until day 3 that I realised I don't have any idea on how to actually claim my soda so I got a refund and just stuck too the available drinks
i remember when i went on symphony back in 2022, my friend and i would go to the hot tub in the solarium at, like, nine or ten and just talk and/or watch anime. after we were done, we would put on our cover-ups and head to sorrento's for a late-night snack. maybe you could see if your kids are interested in something like that? late-night pool/hot tub and pizza!
Does brightside have bathrooms, any food ect or is it like the metro?
I've got my next 4 cruises into 2026 already booked. ✌
I’m done with cruises. I was on the Wonder of the Seas after being on Harmony in 2017(ish) and I was disappointed to no end.
The food- mediocre unless you have a dinning package? I mean Winjammer just had the same bland stuff on both sides…no fish option that tasted decent. The steak was a prime rib with no seasoning and it was just awful.
The MDR didn’t have my favorite classic selections daily yet always had weird Indian food option every night - (Indian food is ok but give me American or Korean BBQ or something different )
There was always a wait for dining and although I was on my time dining - the host wanted me to schedule a reservation for the next day to dine lol. (My time dining should be - schedule at your time a few days prior dining)
Drinks- expensive, I must say I will never ever again get the drink package. After calculating how much i spent I saw that I could have just bough whatever I wanted to drink whenever I felt and the amount paid towards (a room full of deluxe packages) didn’t even come close to what I would have spent a la cart. Beer was about 8-12$ while liquors and cocktails maybe 14-15$
Entertainment - the most boring shows I have ever witnessed EXCEPT the ice skating show (I’ll give credit where credit is due).
HOWEVER, the use of drones for a light show and just really weird performances really left my group….bored.
Experience - my first time cruising was with Royal Caribbean was amazing and I was treated like royalty every where I went on the shit. This time was different…everything was rushed. I had a few items I requested (medical stuff) in my room and it wasn’t there. My personal key card didn’t work embarking and disembarking the ship so I had to go to guest services twice to get it fixed. I only got one key card for our stateroom somehow instead of everyone having their own as well (I did all the pre boarding stuff online).
The ports - it was cool, I don’t book excursions through the cruise line anymore because it’s just too expensive - $100 for zip line 1 time per person? lol lol lol
Coco Cay was nice but the water park was way overpriced on the already expensive cruise and again, food was like something out of an elementary school kids top 5 picks (hot dogs. Burgers. Vanilla ice cream. “juice”)
Room service - we charging for breakfast food room service now? Sheeesshh I thought this cruise was all inclusive.
The ship itself is nice but there was just so much more lacking on that cruise compared to an ALL Inclusive resort at another country.
I don’t feel like the money is worth it to cruise anymore without good food, good entertainment, and good service which were all once the staples of why I would take 10 days off a year strictly to go on a vacation.
It’s sad honestly, but I think I really am looking forward to other cruise lines as an alternative to “Royal” Caribbean
I still will cruise Royal, but I get your complaints. I traveled on Wonder this year and I can see how people don't like it. Its maybe too big for a lot of people and because of it, the personal attention just isn't there. Also, I wonder if they are still having post-COVID staffing issues. I was disappointed when almost every dining option closed at 9pm.
But just an FYI - you got a lot of "kid" food options because these new big cruise ships (Icon, Wonder, etc) are being marketed to families. I took the Thanksgiving cruise on Wonder and there were a ton of under-18s onboard. This is the demographic the cruise companies want because they generate more revenue.
Pretty thorough review. 👍
My to do this year is stop being afraid to travel especially cruising, I listen to all the bad things that's happening and just don't want to do or go anywhere not even out to a movie.
So in 2024 we've planned a cruise with the family, my husband asked me to stop listening to all the horrible cruise news channels 😑 because I almost wanted to cancel our cruise this is a big number 1 for me, I still have things to work on but I'm hopeful ☺️
I just had to cut watching the news out of my life. It’s hard at first because I want to know what’s going on, but it has helped so much with my mental health. 🙏
I booked May 31, 23 after I got off Anthems of the Sea May 1, 23 for Symphony of the Sea May 16, 24, and thanks for the night swim reminder. I haven't done it in years👏🏽👍🏽 I'm still trying to book for 2025 for Hawaii not sure what cruise line Royal Caribbean reposition to itineraries that I don't care to visit. I guess it might be NCL unless I can come up with the funds for Winstar or another upscale Cruise Line. Happy cruising💃🏽
Unless you have a room full of kids, or you're a drunk, the drink package was always a rip off.
Also, the train is more convenient. But just remember if god forbid there's a problem on the train, then you're screwed.
Went on a 4 night RC cruise was curious if the drink package was worth it for me and my wife. We both got it and it was worth it. I looked at the statement to see how many drinks we charged and it was 93 total 😂😂😂
Love the night swim idea and the rock wall idea! We have a cruise coming up in March and our son would love if we did these activities as a family. And although the pricing has gone up for the drink packages and specialty dining, we don't partake in the spa, so these two splurges we will be keeping.
I've been booking out since the re start.
I'm booked now into 2025
Shhhhh. Don't need everyone else doing this!
Brightline questions: did you park at the train station? If so, what do they charge? Did you go down the day of the cruise or a day early? I really want to do this for our cruise out of Ft. Lauderdale in May.
$15 per day. I went a day early
Brightline only works between Orlando and South Florida. They weren't smart enough to build a Port Canaveral terminal so it's not really an option from Orlando or MCO (Orlando Airport) out to Canaveral. The Brightline station is down at the Orlando airport so if you're taking the train from Orlando to South Florida, you have to park somewhere at the airport like you're flying out of town for a week. It's an option, but does have pitfalls.
“Not smart enough” isn’t really fair. The main goal was to get the MCO terminal open & connected. Brightline achieved that. Unfortunately, they aren’t running as fast as originally advertised, probably because Florida Man keeps thinking it’s better to try & beat the train rather than wait 30-45 seconds for it to cross the road. Price is a bit more than hoped for too, not bad for an individual, but can get pricy for a family.
They have bought land in the Cocoa Beach area, and there are rumors of a station coming there. I’m sure they have considered proximity to Port Canaveral in the location, because that port continues to grow. There may be a station near Ft. Pierce area too in the future.
I guess the big question is will that happen before the challenging push through Orlando down to Tampa. A lot of it comes down to local municipalities and planning/zoning. But the fact they finally achieved something that was discussed getting on for 20 years ago, I’d say that’s commendable.
@@moodybluesU2 how anyone could go through the effort of building out a rail line from South Florida and have it go right by Port Canaveral but then not put a terminal at Port Canaveral is beyond me. Common sense would seem to dictate you do whatever you have to do to get the rail to be able to stop at Canaveral. If that means additional bridges have to be built, raise the money and build them.
@@moodybluesU2 It's just hard to explain away how you could build a rail connection up the east coast of Florida, get that close to Port Canaveral, and then turn west like..nope..none for you today...
Just DONT rely on brightline to announce the right train!! I just missed a cruise because they said the south train was approaching but it WAS NOT it was the north train. Igot on and was stuck 2HOURS to orlando waited an hour then 2 HOURS BACK missing my cruise out of miami. Im in a wheelchair so i rely on help getting on with a ramp they have to put .😢
Like your ideas on booking early and casino deals as a drink package option. I can't speak for RC but if you get their attention, NCL will give you at least a 20% discount on the cabin along with the drinks (but only in the casino). If things go real bad for you, you might get a free inside room. All-in-all, and if you're mindful of your gambling, it's pretty close to the same price but with some added fun. Good luck to you for a super fun 2024.
Funny, I have the same challenge ahead of me this year. Multiple cruises already booked and I get my diamond drinks. Plus I already have prime. I’m going to see if it’s possible that I don’t need to buy the Deluxe drink package anymore. I do love that convenience though. But why do I feel stressed out not having booked it at the lowest price 😂
You said your not much of a gambler. At 11 cruises you would have to average 227 points or $1,136 (if playing slots, double that on tables) on each of those cruises. Is there a secret or tip to get up to 2500 points without moving $12,500 in 1 year?
My wife and I cruised on Serenade of the Seas for 14 nights in November 2023, Panama Canal cruise. During that cruise, I was able to gamble enough to reach Prime status. This is beneficial to me because I like to indulge a little while on the cruise ship. After all, I'm not driving and my wife does not drink. I usually pay per drink when I want on the cruise as a result.
We are booked for Oasis of the Seas on April 2014. I am looking forward to not needing to pay per drink this time. By the way, this booking is our "free" cruise for being a Prime member. I say Free because we did have to pay for port fees, taxes, gratuities. I splurged a little and bought the Key this time around to try it out.
We convert Points from our RCL CC to onboard credit to cover drinks instead of buying the package...
More B2B cruises! No more unlimited dining packages as it is too much food anyways. Look for more excursions not thru the cruise line to get some variety. Being a older solo traveler, I feel safer with the RC excursions but have found many cities are great on my own.
Is the rock climbing included or an additional charge?
Included
We look forward to trying the Brightline train in 3 weeks for our trip on Icon. I'm not sure it's a better deal though as costs are about the same for 2 people and much more for 4 ($140 R/T for each person for coach plus luggage fees). in the last week or so there were two deadly accidents in Melbourne when cars were on the tracks so, just like the turnpike or 95 - there's no guarantee of clear sailing from Orlando to Miami or Lauderdale. We'll post our experience after our trip. I really hope it's a great experience. I would prefer not to make that drive.
My family and went on our first cruise last summer. We had a blast, and one of the best times of the day was the night swim and movie. So relaxing.
Don’t take a drink package(liquor/soft drinks) or eat at other than the complimentary restaurants. Also don’t buy souvenirs on ship
Could you do a video with a more in depth explanation on why everyone thinks that booking early is better than last minute. Every CruiseTuber on YT says that, but I have been tracking it for a long time and in my experience it just doesnt seem true. Perhaps theres something I'm missing, or not accounting for. Is there any way you could go more in depth on how you (and seemingly everyone else) keeps arriving at this conclusion?
I have 4 cruises on the books with 3 being the newest RCL ships. I reserve the first "moment" they become available to book. However, I do not book the first several cruises so the kinks can be worked out, or if the ship begins sailing in the summer, I wait several months as I don't cruise in the summer, unless it is Alaska. (Well, I would love to do another Med cruise someday, in the summer)
Hey Matt, I also want to do the rock wall but also the Flow rider. My other change is to take a NAP. I couldn't believe how exhausted I got on Oasis last year!
Fantastic video. I agree with the notion that drink packages and the dining package just aren't compelling at these current prices. It'd be good if RC offered an alcoholic drink package that was not unlimited. And the way that the description of the dining package on the RC website is written does not seem enticing. It's as if RC is nonchalantly throwing it out there, take it or leave it. Doesn't do a good enough job answering questions.
Have recently gotten into solo cruising, Booked a cruise in Oct 2025, going to try a suite for the first time. Booking nearly 2 years ahead of time allows me to parse out the payments of the trip making it easier to afford the more lavish stateroom. I usually buy the refreshment package as a sober individual, once I hit diamond later this year I'll be ditching that as well. I've never done the UDP, it just never seemed like a good enough deal to even both with. I've always enjoyed the MDR, even with the changes to the menu. The only tips I have for eating is to book a specialty restaurant on embarkation day for lunch. It is a much more chill way to start the cruise. Then for dinner on the final night I get another one. Sort of bookend my cruise experience with fine dining.
With the only cruise I'm going on being Icon, my wife and I plan to try and do some stuff after dinner. Almost every night after dinner we would maybe take a short walk around and then return to our cabin and call it a night. Maybe one night per cruise we would have something like our couples massage, or sit in a hot tub. But this year we're planning on going to the Jazz Club, or the Dueling Pianos. Something to try and break our shell. Also helps this'll be our first cruise as Diamond members and will have the drink vouchers to use. Though neither of drinks alcohol, so it'll be a little more challenging then most other people.
Let me know how that goes 🙏 We don’t drink either but are a huge fan of mocktails. Curious what they will let you use the vouchers for.
Me and my partner exceeded our drink package cost by over 1.8x. Very glad we purchased it
Tip #2 is one that I always offer up! I turned diamond about 6 months ago and have been prime in the casino for the last 2 years. Since becoming Prime, I have not brought a drink package 🎉😅! I'm also not an all day drinker but have gotten some other good tips to stretch out the Prime benefits. If you like a particular alcohol, order shots neat and dump them into a Yetti type cup. Order cans of sodas with them as well (I'll usually get 2 at a time). This can easily yield 6 drinks. Also, order a few bottles of beer and ask for them unopened. This can easily get you through the day until the casino bar opens. Also order bottles of waters from the bar. They come in handy for port day. Now that I have diamond vouchers, they carry me the whole day. It's definitely doable Matt!
Unfortunately, almost all the specials for Brightline are from Orlando, not West Palm beach to Miami.
I only drink mango daiquiri so I never buy the drinks package. I drink a lot of water. I can even bring those.
I LOVE THAT AMERICA IS FINALLY CATCHING UP ON TRAINS!!!!
I have watched many of your videos and have recommended them to many people. Thanks for the honest and insightful info. We cruise Feb 18th
I will be interested to know how much you spend in the casino vs the cost of the drinks package! There is a reason they give free drinks there.
Thank you for the idea of a night swim. Our family too talk about it but for the same mentioned reasons never do it. I think it’s time to jump in to the pool after dinner instead of bed!
That first tip is key. I’m saving to book on the icon for a big celebration in 2026 while doing smaller cruises in between! Thanks for this 🎉
We booked Icon of the Seas 3 months out and now the cruise is 1k cheaper....
We used Next Cruise in March 2023 to book a family cruise for December 2024 (2 staterooms, 5 adults). Still 9 months away and the current price is nearly $5k greater than what we booked 18 months in advance!
Wow huge save! I’m still debating wether to use NextCruise or a travel agent after my next sail in May
So, waste money gambling in the casino, to get free drinks? Hmm
We like to end all of our cruises with a Night Swim - more specifically in the hot tub - it is so peaceful and almost never is there other people there. It's the perfect way to end a cruise for us.
Question, we are on sympathy of the seas next week, our first royal cruise and we have the 3 day dining package and I know it says we are allowed up to 20.00 per day and alcarte places like playmaker’s, can we eat there every day and still get our 3 speciality restaurants?
Let me know your thoughts on the drinks from the casino. I'm curious.
We did a couple of the specialty restaurants on our first RC cruise but none of the ones we took after. They were ok but too pricy.
First cruise for us in August! So no changes to be made, yet. How easy is it to get Prime tier in the casino?
If you ever try NCL I recommend the Bliss
I just had my 1st cruise experience...Christmas...Royal...I did not care for the main dining food, but I did enjoy the French onion soup in the main dining room...interesting you showed that dish...
I'm going on my first cruise this Christmas. We embark on my birthday, so there will be lots to celebrate. Was the ship decorated for Christmas?
Subscribed because you got hosed by FB. Leave on our first cruise since 2017 on Sunday. 21 days on Explorer of the Seas.
Welcome!
Ive done the rock wall at a mall in China, once was enough.
Truist Financial Securities recently upgraded their rating on Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) to “Buy”.
18 Wall Street analysts have an average rating of “Moderate Buy” with a high estimate of $160 representing a +30% increase from the last price of $122.49.
🚢 🚀
I've been on two Royal Caribbean cruises. I learned something very valuable that I don't intend to repeat. NO MORE GIGANTIC SHIPS. I loved the Majesty of the Seas, one of their "small" ships that fit me perfectly until they sold it off. I was also aboard the Liberty of the Seas and won't do it again--on a ship that size or bigger. Something that I also learned is that the food in the buffet and the MDRs is average. Their chocolate desserts need to upgrade flavor-wise.
We love casino comps!! Free drinks and free cruises...SIGN US UP!! We are both Prime casino status, so free drinks. Plus, we will do 4 comped cruises this year (2 with suite upgrades) and we get so many offers for more free cruises, but we still work full time and can't squeeze in any more time off. 😢
The NCL included drink package that cost around $20 a day (gratuity) is the only package I would get. We could only drink 6 to 7 drinks 🍹 a day max, good value on NCL. 😅
There are some many awesome places to see and many ways to vacation. Us regular people that don’t cruise as much as you or not as high in the loyalty status as you probably won’t give up the drink package, lol.
But, you CAN cruise more if you do NOT get the drink package. I have only ever booked an interior cabin and have never gotten the drink package. Spending HALF as much money on each cruise has enabled me to go on TWICE as many cruises, as I would have done otherwise.
Always watch a live musician on the ship.
does the train go from MCO to Port Canaveral?
For me, the dbp has to be less than about $65/day for me to feel it's worthwhile. I did just make Diamond on my last cruise, so on my upcoming 4/3 back to back, I'm forgoing the deluxe given the increased costs for those cruises, I'll easily save even if I have to supplement the 4 diamond drinks.
The drink packages are HIGHWAY ROBBERY!! Plus, even then, they put a "limit" on how many drinks you get from that package per day. Another thing, if you travel with your spouse, partner, SO, etc...and you are a drinker and they are not, we were told that you BOTH have to pony up for the drink package, and the EXCUSE we were given was that RC is afraid people will try to pilfer and 'game' the drink system. Basically calling your customers dishonest and thieves turned us off ROYALLY (pun intended). Won't be cruising with RC again anytime soon.
We are Diamond now and have been questioning the drink package for the last couple cruises. We got it for Icon but have decided not to get it for our next sailing a few weeks after as a test. I am scared! Very very scared of cruising with no drink package. LOL Is there a RCB support group for others in this predicament? LOL
Exact same here. We hit diamond in April and I’m saying this will be my last package but the reality is I think I’d be scared of the bill without it.
I tried this out on Mariner earlier this month. It was definitely an adjustment, but it's practical.
@3:45 We're taking Amtrak from San Antonio to Vancouver for our Alaska cruises in May.
Wow, how long is the ride? Will you have a sleeper car?
@@michelleb749 66 hours. Nope, in a ... chair? Lounger?
I have to ask lol. How difficult is it while having the unlimited drink package to sneak my wife a drink if she doesn’t have it 😅
Impossible because it goes by the room, if two adults in room then you both have to buy the package
I love cruising but with all the price hikes, the nickel and diming, upcharges on more and more stuff, the over priced excursions if you book with the cruise line to guarantee you won't be left behind....I think it might be time to go back to a nice adult only all inclusive in the D.R. after my next trip on anthem of the seas
Love the night swim idea for kids !
Booked 28 day b2b cruise in a Suite in Oct 24 on Ovation to Australia. I am Diamond so the perks are ok for now
Thanks Matt!! 2 questions, I still have my WOW Band from Oasis last April, If I bring it on Harmony in May, can they recode it or do I need to buy a new one? And, Harmony, May 12-19, any chance seeing you on it???
Just book for December 2025!
Just did symphony of the seas. The drink package is a joke. Im a light weight when it comes to drinking. Half of a margarita in my favorite mexican restaurant does me in. I had 7 mixed drinks in one day and absolutely nothing! They didnt even phase me. Starbucks is not included in this pkg. There were very few coke fountain machines to fill cups and they only worked some of the time. We literally had to go to the bar and get cans of coke to store in our cabin fridge. Me and my husband spent 1000 bucks (and that was with 30% off) and it was not worth that to us at all. We will never do that again.
Hi Matt. I rarely see videos of Mexican Riviera Royal Caribbean cruises. We are taking our first cruise this October to the M-Riviera aboard Navigator of the Seas, and would like to see the do’s and dont’s.
Thanks!
BTW, you are the reason we booked Royal!
We have the icon in dec, that I booked when they opened , a balcony for $3145 for the 2 of us, probably half of what it is now. However looking at bright line for that cruise is running about $800 for the 2 of is, a bit high, ill probably go down but most
Likely fly back. We also have something for 25 booked
Taking the train tomorrow 1/20 just like you , Orlando to Miami for our 6 day Western Caribbean. First time using a none NY train 😂 we are excited and hope it works well because I HATE the drive there
I switched from rc to Azamara..drinks are included so you never have to pay extra for a drinks package again
💙💙💙Wish I was there right now 😊
Matt question for you. I am schedule to go on a cruise with friends on grandeur of the seas on September 9-14 to Cozumel and wonder if they have Saturday night fever in the program. We thinking of dressing in costumes. Thank you
So Matt... you are admitting you wasn't taking your own advice by not booking the cruises far in advanced. We are trying the Brightline train for cruises we have out of Port Canaveral vs driving over. 5 hour drive can be a PIA. I would disagree about Royal stepping up on the included food options. The only exception is Icon but everything else is okay but not any different than a year or two ago. We still pay for dining package - usually a 3 night.
Great suggestions. BTW...I think your time notations are off -- check where the train one starts.