First time on RCI! Would love some insider tips!

[Taylors]

Hi all!

 

We just booked our very first cruise on RCI. Prior to this we've only ever sailed on Carnival. We are so excited to branch out and enjoy the RCI experience!

We leave in 25 days!! On the Oasis from Port Canaveral Incredible last minute deal we couldn't pass up. $1,550 for our family of 4! Myself, my husband and our 4 year old son and just turned 1 year old daughter.

 

I've got a few questions for all the RCI veterans.

 

1) We are in an OV balcony guarantee. Any idea when we may get our cabin assignment? We've already gotten the email with our cruise documents, but I'm wondering if I should wait to print them out when we get an assignment, or will we not until we check in at the dock?

 

2) What is the situation with bringing beverages on board? I know we can bring 2 bottles of wine, which we will. But I'm more concerned with bottled water. I see that I can pre order some to he room. However I can not stand the taste Evian. The tap water on Carnival is horrible and I'm not sure what to expect from RCI. I'm reading that officially we can't, but that it is not always strictly enforced. Whats been your experience?

 

3) What is the room storage situation like? We will have 2 suitcases, an infant car seat and a booster car seat. Is there room under the beds to store the suitcases? I'm trying to decide between traditional suitcases or rolling duffel bags that will store flat.

 

4) Are the showers equipped with Shampoo, conditioner and body wash? Or do we need to bring our own?

 

5) How many outlets are there typically? And is there a clock in the room? We want to travel as light as possible and don't want to bring the travel alarm clock and small power strip if not necessary.

 

6) Our room has a double sofa bed. Is this made back into a sofa daily or will it be left as a bed? If left as a bed, does it take up the whole room? Our daughter will sleep in bed with us, and my son doesn't need a full double to himself. Has anyone just had the couch made into a bed without pulling it out?

 

I think that's it for now! But would be much appreciative of any other tips anyone is willing to share!

 

Thanks!!

[Biker19]

1. Any time, but probably within a couple of days.

2. RCI just changed policy on water - bring it.

3. Yes.

4. Yes.

5. 2 - leave the power strip at home

6. Work with your cabin steward

[ClearLaker]

Hi all!

 

We just booked our very first cruise on RCI. Prior to this we've only ever sailed on Carnival. We are so excited to branch out and enjoy the RCI experience!

We leave in 25 days!! On the Oasis from Port Canaveral Incredible last minute deal we couldn't pass up. $1,550 for our family of 4! Myself, my husband and our 4 year old son and just turned 1 year old daughter.

 

I've got a few questions for all the RCI veterans.

 

1) We are in an OV balcony guarantee. Any idea when we may get our cabin assignment? We've already gotten the email with our cruise documents, but I'm wondering if I should wait to print them out when we get an assignment, or will we not until we check in at the dock? It can be within a few days or up until right before you cruise. If you have not done so create a sign-in with your reservation. You will be able to monitor it as well as have access to the Cruise Planner

 

2) What is the situation with bringing beverages on board? I know we can bring 2 bottles of wine, which we will. But I'm more concerned with bottled water. I see that I can pre order some to he room. However I can not stand the taste Evian. The tap water on Carnival is horrible and I'm not sure what to expect from RCI. I'm reading that officially we can't, but that it is not always strictly enforced. Whats been your experience? Royal's new policy is you are allowed a 12 pack of water or soda per cabin. There is filtered water available at all dining locations so you can bring your Yeti and fill.

 

3) What is the room storage situation like? We will have 2 suitcases, an infant car seat and a booster car seat. Is there room under the beds to store the suitcases? I'm trying to decide between traditional suitcases or rolling duffel bags that will store flat. Suitcases will fit under the beds. booster seat will go in the closet.

 

4) Are the showers equipped with Shampoo, conditioner and body wash? Or do we need to bring our own? Shower will have an all-in-one dispenser. Bar soap provided. Recommend bringing your own.

 

5) How many outlets are there typically? 3 (2 at the vanity and 1 by the bed) And is there a clock in the room? Only on the room phone. We want to travel as light as possible and don't want to bring the travel alarm clock and small power strip if not necessary. Power strips and extension cords no longer allowed.

 

6) Our room has a double sofa bed. Is this made back into a sofa daily yes or will it be left as a bed? No If left as a bed, does it take up the whole room? No Our daughter will sleep in bed with us, and my son doesn't need a full double to himself. It is a fold down not a pullout. Has anyone just had the couch made into a bed without pulling it out? Tell your stateroom attendant. Royal does service 2x a day not 1x like Carnival.

 

I think that's it for now! But would be much appreciative of any other tips anyone is willing to share!

 

Thanks!!

 

See answers above

[rncruiser]

My daughter, who was 18 at the time, slept in the couch without having it made into a bed. Her choice. She was quite comfortable and it certainly made the room easier to navigate in the morning.

 

 

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[ggtjr]

For you little one still in a diaper, change it with her standing up. I saw this in a restroom by one of the pools.

 

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[cb at sea]

RCI's water is fine. It's in your food, beverages and ice. It will never "run cold" from the tap, but you can put ice in it! They have ice water dispensers win the buffet.