Noise Concerns- Anthem of the Sea

[resjes]

A member recommended I post my questions here instead.

 

I just booked DECK 6 Room 6270..I believe it is portside / aft. On the Royal Caribbean , Anthem of Seas cruise May 23 (9 days) to Bermuda/Caribbean. I have sleeping issues and hoping this won't be noisy. I know it is an obstructed view and I'm near lifeboats. Any tips for anti motion sickness or activities that are easy on the back would be appreciated. I am going solo...thanks in advance for any tips, especially for a solo traveler.

 

I want to sign up for pilates/yoga etc but when I tried to do it in the planner, it said I could only do the first day? for a pack of 3 fitness classes? also, can you bring food in your carry on luggage? i assume the cruise doesn't have airline restrictions of no liquids? (i think I saw somewhere there is a liquor limit of 2 175 mL bottles?) anything else I need to know for my first time? I went on a Disney cruise when I was very young...I am 27 now. A friend told me there is a wine package on board (can't purchase online) instead of the $52/day premium liquor package? I purchased "the Key". I'm going to bring a laptop and cell phone, I assume the 1 device only applies to 1 that is being used so I can interchange between the cell phone and laptop at different times? my friend said if you purchase liquor bottles you can't pick them up until the last day? do they drop them off in your room or how do you obtain the liquor?

 

I read through other Deck 6 posts, and apparently there is an expert here?

 

I live in NJ and am looking forward to leaving out of NJ instead of flying! I've booked some "excursions" on the islands...I've been told not to stray from the markets...I already booked that 360 view on the ship.

 

Finally, I have food allergies...how accommodating is the ship? Also, I heard about extra padding for the beds? in terms of security, has anyone had any problems with theft?

 

thank you again!

[bowler15547]

8 hours ago, resjes said:

A member recommended I post my questions here instead.

 

I just booked DECK 6 Room 6270..I believe it is portside / aft. On the Royal Caribbean , Anthem of Seas cruise May 23 (9 days) to Bermuda/Caribbean. I have sleeping issues and hoping this won't be noisy. I know it is an obstructed view and I'm near lifeboats. Any tips for anti motion sickness or activities that are easy on the back would be appreciated. I am going solo...thanks in advance for any tips, especially for a solo traveler.

Holy Questions.

 

Most deck 6 cabins on Quantum class are obstructed. The lifeboat goes up to about the balcony railing. You may have a view of the "arm" that holds the life boat. All in all, there is still a water view, and it really is not bad. I was in 6220 and there was no noise at all, and I was on the fully loaded Thanksgiving cruise. I have a family member that gets motion sick and she starts Bonine about a week prior to the cruise and continues it through the cruise, so it builds up in her system. 

 

8 hours ago, resjes said:

 

also, can you bring food in your carry on luggage? i assume the cruise doesn't have airline restrictions of no liquids? (i think I saw somewhere there is a liquor limit of 2 175 mL bottles?) anything else I need to know for my first time? I went on a Disney cruise when I was very young...I am 27 now. A friend told me there is a wine package on board (can't purchase online) instead of the $52/day premium liquor package? I purchased "the Key". I'm going to bring a laptop and cell phone, I assume the 1 device only applies to 1 that is being used so I can interchange between the cell phone and laptop at different times? my friend said if you purchase liquor bottles you can't pick them up until the last day? do they drop them off in your room or how do you obtain the liquor?

 

You can bring pre-packaged food if you want to, although food is plentiful on the ship so not sure why you would. No liquid restrictions. You can NOT bring liquor on board, there is a limit of 2 750ml bottles of wine plus a 12 pack of water/soda not exceeding 17oz bottles. They sometimes offer a wine package, but it is few and far between. Check Vintages on board for specials if you are a wine drinker. You can switch between devices for the WiFi no problem. All liquor purchased on board or in the ports is held until the last day where they deliver it to you room. Keep in mind you have a duty free limit of 1 liter of alcohol per person by the US Customs and Border Patrol.

 

8 hours ago, resjes said:

 

Finally, I have food allergies...how accommodating is the ship? Also, I heard about extra padding for the beds? in terms of security, has anyone had any problems with theft?

 

They will ask you about food allergies and are very accommodating. Talk to your waiters at the start of the meal. Cabin attendants will bring a mattress pad, if asked. I've been on 16 cruises with RCCL and never had a problem with theft. 

[sparks1093]

I'll be in 6142 in 50-some days and I don't expect noise issues, but I bring ear plugs with me. I would advise keeping valuable in the safe and not leave anything laying about.

[resjes]

9 minutes ago, bowler15547 said:

Holy Questions.

 

Most deck 6 cabins on Quantum class are obstructed. The lifeboat goes up to about the balcony railing. You may have a view of the "arm" that holds the life boat. All in all, there is still a water view, and it really is not bad. I was in 6220 and there was no noise at all, and I was on the fully loaded Thanksgiving cruise. I have a family member that gets motion sick and she starts Bonine about a week prior to the cruise and continues it through the cruise, so it builds up in her system. 

 

You can bring pre-packaged food if you want to, although food is plentiful on the ship so not sure why you would. No liquid restrictions. You can NOT bring liquor on board, there is a limit of 2 750ml bottles of wine plus a 12 pack of water/soda not exceeding 17oz bottles. They sometimes offer a wine package, but it is few and far between. Check Vintages on board for specials if you are a wine drinker. You can switch between devices for the WiFi no problem. All liquor purchased on board or in the ports is held until the last day where they deliver it to you room. Keep in mind you have a duty free limit of 1 liter of alcohol per person by the US Customs and Border Patrol.

 

 

They will ask you about food allergies and are very accommodating. Talk to your waiters at the start of the meal. Cabin attendants will bring a mattress pad, if asked. I've been on 16 cruises with RCCL and never had a problem with theft. 

Thank you, thank you!!! I may bring fiber bars and save some money. This ties back to food allergies. 1 liter of alcohol is not a lot ugh! There is a liquor I like that is n/a in the US so I was hoping to buy several bottles. I know someone who used to bring an empty suitcase and fill with liquor. Do you get screened when you get off the cruise at desembarkment?

[bowler15547]

5 minutes ago, resjes said:

 I know someone who used to bring an empty suitcase and fill with liquor. Do you get screened when you get off the cruise at desembarkment?

 

It is set by CBP. 9 times out of 10 they just let you off and you go on your merry way. If they suspect something, they have a right to search your baggage. You can take off as much alcohol as you want, you just may have to pay duty and tax on them. I've found that if you are honest with the agent, and you aren't over your limit by a silly amount, they typically don't bother with the few bucks in duty.

[stevea36]

2 additional items:

1- any wine or soft drinks that you bring onboard must be in your carry on luggage, not checked luggage

2- I suggest you contact the RCI special needs department regarding your allergies and any other needs.  You can email them at special_needs@rccl.com or call them at 866-592-7225

 

[pippy32388]

For motion sickness I would purchase Bonine and take it when you get on the boat (they also have it available in the medical facility on board by the bucketful.

 

Pilates/Yoga usually have a fee involved. On the first day of the boat they always do a spa raffle in the Gym. They will have sign up sheets when you go in for those activities as well as a little presentation if you wanted to know a bit more about onboard activities in both the spa and the gym.

 

For bringing liquids onboard there is a 2 bottle 750ml wine limit per stateroom. You also can bring non-alcoholic beverages - “may not exceed 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles or cartons per stateroom” I do not remember seeing anything about a wine package when I was on the Anthem in December. I am going again in March and if you like I can inquire for you. When you purchase liquor they drop them outside of your cabin the last night of the cruise.

 

If you are leaving out of NJ remember it is $22 a day to park at the terminal. Get there a bit early because there is usually a long line to get to the boat and drop off your luggage.

 

For food allergies tell them, they are really accommodating. Even in the buffet areas if you ask a worker they can make you something special. When you ask for extra padding they usually just fold a blanket in half under the fitted sheet. I have not had issues with theft – but be smart about it! I would watch my things outside of the cabin because people can be pretty rotten. Also lock up valuables in the room, there is a safe in the closet for that purpose.

 

If you have any additional questions, if you even read to this point (lol), feel free to ask. I have been on this boat at least 5 times.

 

[resjes]

2 minutes ago, pippy32388 said:

For motion sickness I would purchase Bonine and take it when you get on the boat (they also have it available in the medical facility on board by the bucketful.

 

Pilates/Yoga usually have a fee involved. On the first day of the boat they always do a spa raffle in the Gym. They will have sign up sheets when you go in for those activities as well as a little presentation if you wanted to know a bit more about onboard activities in both the spa and the gym.

 

For bringing liquids onboard there is a 2 bottle 750ml wine limit per stateroom. You also can bring non-alcoholic beverages - “may not exceed 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles or cartons per stateroom” I do not remember seeing anything about a wine package when I was on the Anthem in December. I am going again in March and if you like I can inquire for you. When you purchase liquor they drop them outside of your cabin the last night of the cruise.

 

If you are leaving out of NJ remember it is $22 a day to park at the terminal. Get there a bit early because there is usually a long line to get to the boat and drop off your luggage.

 

For food allergies tell them, they are really accommodating. Even in the buffet areas if you ask a worker they can make you something special. When you ask for extra padding they usually just fold a blanket in half under the fitted sheet. I have not had issues with theft – but be smart about it! I would watch my things outside of the cabin because people can be pretty rotten. Also lock up valuables in the room, there is a safe in the closet for that purpose.

 

If you have any additional questions, if you even read to this point (lol), feel free to ask. I have been on this boat at least 5 times.

 

Thanks! I am getting an Uber to the port. It says departure is 4 pm and i bought the Key. I have not received a packet yet with info on when to arrive. Will they tell me when the liquor gets delivered so it won't get stolen ? Also i ordered 2 cases of water b/c I am dehydrated a lot of the time so I don't want that stolen as it was like $80 a case. What is the cheapest way to drink alcohol? I don't drink hard alcohol anyway. I emailed them about the allergies.

[KelJ]

15 minutes ago, resjes said:

Thanks! I am getting an Uber to the port. It says departure is 4 pm and i bought the Key. I have not received a packet yet with info on when to arrive. Will they tell me when the liquor gets delivered so it won't get stolen ? Also i ordered 2 cases of water b/c I am dehydrated a lot of the time so I don't want that stolen as it was like $80 a case. What is the cheapest way to drink alcohol? I don't drink hard alcohol anyway. I emailed them about the allergies.

 

Your room steward will put the liquor in your cabin. It won’t be sitting out in the hall. You don’t have to be there when it’s delivered. 

[KelJ]

5 hours ago, stevea36 said:

2 additional items:

1- any wine or soft drinks that you bring onboard must be in your carry on luggage, not checked luggage

2- I suggest you contact the RCI special needs department regarding your allergies and any other needs.  You can email them at special_needs@rccl.com or call them at 866-592-7225

 

 

It is not a requirement that your wine and soft drinks be in your carry-on. We often put the wine in our checked luggage. People who fly to the port on sailaway day sometimes don’t have the opportunity, or desire, to remove the wine and carry it on. Also, I don’t like lugging the wine around until the cabins are ready. Sometimes we get called to the naughty room; sometimes we do not. It’s not a big deal. You just open your suitcase in front of them, show them the wine bottles, and then you take the suitcase to your cabin. 

[Guest maddycat]

20 minutes ago, resjes said:

 I have not received a packet yet with info on when to arrive. Will they tell me when the liquor gets delivered so it won't get stolen ? Also i ordered 2 cases of water b/c I am dehydrated a lot of the time so I don't want that stolen as it was like $80 a case. 

You should check your cruise planner at RCI's website.  You will be able to choose an arrival time, fill out your setsail pass, print out luggage tags, etc.

 

Whenever we have purchased liquor onboard it has been delivered to our stateroom and our cabin attendant has always put it in our cabin.  We have never found it in the hall outside our cabin.  I imagine that you will find your water in your cabin when you arrive.  If it is not there before dinner call guest services and ask about it.  You should bring a print out of your receipts for anything that was purchased before the cruise.

[stevea36]

5 minutes ago, KelJ said:

 

It is not a requirement that your wine and soft drinks be in your carry-on. We often put the wine in our checked luggage. People who fly to the port on sailaway day sometimes don’t have the opportunity, or desire, to remove the wine and carry it on. Also, I don’t like lugging the wine around until the cabins are ready. Sometimes we get called to the naughty room; sometimes we do not. It’s not a big deal. You just open your suitcase in front of them, show them the wine bottles, and then you take the suitcase to your cabin. 

RCI's rules were changed on September 1, 2018 to state that all wine and non-alcoholic beverages are to be in your carry on luggage.  

 

[pippy32388]

24 minutes ago, resjes said:

Thanks! I am getting an Uber to the port. It says departure is 4 pm and i bought the Key. I have not received a packet yet with info on when to arrive. Will they tell me when the liquor gets delivered so it won't get stolen ? Also i ordered 2 cases of water b/c I am dehydrated a lot of the time so I don't want that stolen as it was like $80 a case. What is the cheapest way to drink alcohol? I don't drink hard alcohol anyway. I emailed them about the allergies.

Regardless of when they tell you to arrive I highly encourage you to get there at least 60 minutes before final call to get on the boat. They don't tell you when the liquor gets delivered but usually they leave it in your cabin. I have been on 20 cruises with Royal and so far have had no issues with things getting stolen. The water they usually have in your cabin already

 

 

[stevea36]

Just now, maddycat said:

You should check your cruise planner at RCI's website.  You will be able to choose an arrival time, fill out your setsail pass, print out luggage tags, etc.

 

Whenever we have purchased liquor onboard it has been delivered to our stateroom and our cabin attendant has always put it in our cabin.  We have never found it in the hall outside our cabin.  I imagine that you will find your water in your cabin when you arrive.  If it is not there before dinner call guest services and ask about it.  You should bring a print out of your receipts for anything that was purchased before the cruise.

Arrival times for cruises departing from the US (and Puerto Rico) are never enforced.  Just show up anytime after 1030 and before all-aboard (90 minutes before scheduled departure) and you will be able to board.

[pippy32388]

30 minutes ago, resjes said:

Thanks! I am getting an Uber to the port. It says departure is 4 pm and i bought the Key. I have not received a packet yet with info on when to arrive. Will they tell me when the liquor gets delivered so it won't get stolen ? Also i ordered 2 cases of water b/c I am dehydrated a lot of the time so I don't want that stolen as it was like $80 a case. What is the cheapest way to drink alcohol? I don't drink hard alcohol anyway. I emailed them about the allergies.

 

Cheap Drinks 101-

 

Check the cruise compass. For the last few cruises they have done $2 mimosas usually from 11am-12n at the casino bar on sea days. Art auctions usually give out free bubbly. Not the best, but you grab your drink and can mix it with any of the free juice options at the windjammer or coffee lounge area on deck 5. The drink of the day is usually around $8 and you can ask for it without a souvenir glass to make it cheaper sometimes. You also can bring your wine with you to dinner, and they can cork it for you. 

 

Also if you have no shame find a cruise buddy who has a drink package and can slip you some free drinks (not really allowed... but I think most people on this forum has gone to another bar to pick up a drink for a friend at least once). Same as this if you befriend a diamond or higher level buddy they might bring you into the diamond lounge for their free cocktail hour. 

 

 

[KelJ]

3 minutes ago, stevea36 said:

RCI's rules were changed on September 1, 2018 to state that all wine and non-alcoholic beverages are to be in your carry on luggage.  

 

 

We packed wine in our luggage in January 2019. So did other people. Lots of people had flown in that day. Staff just wants to make sure it isn’t hard liquor. 

[Biker19]

3 minutes ago, pippy32388 said:

Also if you have no shame find a cruise buddy who has a drink package and can slip you some free drinks 

Hope you are ready for some "feedback".

[pippy32388]

Just now, Biker19 said:

Hope you are ready for some "feedback".

 

That's fine. I mean it in a platonic way. although I can see what you mean! I have been on cruises and played trivia with random people who over the course of the week would become friendly with you and order you a drink or two if they knew you had no package! (clearly my mind was not in the gutter >.<)

[KelJ]

6 minutes ago, pippy32388 said:

Also if you have no shame find a cruise buddy who has a drink package and can slip you some free drinks (not really allowed... but I think most people on this forum has gone to another bar to pick up a drink for a friend at least once). Same as this if you befriend a diamond or higher level buddy they might bring you into the diamond lounge for their free cocktail hour. 

 

Popping some popcorn for this one... 

[Biker19]

2 minutes ago, pippy32388 said:

That's fine. I mean it in a platonic way. although I can see what you mean! 

Nope, not feedback about that, but from the sharing police.

[stevea36]

9 minutes ago, Biker19 said:

Nope, not feedback about that, but from the sharing police.

Just one line...   People doing exactly that is why we now need to purchase the drink package for everyone over the legal drinking age that is in our cabin if we want it !!

 

End..

[resjes]

Thanks, everyone! Is there a "grace period" from the departure at the port to when you actually need to be there? For example, I think one of them is like a departure at 4 pm. If I get there at 4:05, will the cruise be gone? Asking because I just missed a train .. only a minute late.

 

Also, what is the weather like on this particular route? I was advised that it will be HOT in the Caribbean at the end of May. Is there a high chance for rain? Not only have I not been on a cruise since I was a kid..but I've never left the country before so sorry for all the questions.

 

Finally, did anyone buy insurance (they wanted me to purchase a $200 insurance policy at checkout)? I did not purchase it as I had someone look at the NJ policy and was told it wasn't worth it because the catastrophic events were too narrow?

 

P.S. I purchased the flat fee gratuity at checkout. I guess there is no going back now but I'm hoping others did the same/is it cost effective?!

[pippy32388]

50 minutes ago, resjes said:

Thanks, everyone! Is there a "grace period" from the departure at the port to when you actually need to be there? For example, I think one of them is like a departure at 4 pm. If I get there at 4:05, will the cruise be gone? Asking because I just missed a train .. only a minute late.

 

 

 

You want to get there early if possible.  This is a copy of my set sail from my last cruise leaving on the anthem, and if you notice the bottom it warns you when the cut-off time for getting on the boat it. 

 

[resjes]

7 minutes ago, pippy32388 said:

 

 

You want to get there early if possible.  This is a copy of my set sail from my last cruise leaving on the anthem, and if you notice the bottom it warns you when the cut-off time for getting on the boat it. 

 

My apologies. I was referring to the port destinations. How much time do you have if the cruise departs at like 8 pm? 10, 20, 30 mins?

[Biker19]

9 minutes ago, resjes said:

My apologies. I was referring to the port destinations. How much time do you have if the cruise departs at like 8 pm? 10, 20, 30 mins?

30 min is the default.