GETTING READY TO CRUISE FROM U.S HOMEPORTS
Here are the latest protocols for our guests sailing from the U.S., which we will continue to update as public health situations evolve. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing.
Guests traveling into the U.S. from another country should be sure to look into any requirements your own home country may have for exiting or re-entering its borders.
Vaccination Requirement
All Royal Caribbean guests age 12 and older must present proof of full COVID-19 vaccination with the final dose administered at least 14 days before sailing. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
Each guest’s regimen must include at least two doses of vaccine unless the guest received the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. This guidance is per the U.S. CDC, and no exceptions will be made, even if the guest's resident country has authorized a single-shot regimen for a two dose vaccine.
All crew onboard the ship and at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, are fully vaccinated.
Testing Requirements
All Guests: Required Pre-Cruise Testing
Before arriving on boarding day, you’ll need to take a COVID-19 test on your own, at your own expense, to meet U.S. CDC boarding requirements.
- Vaccinated guests must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding day. NOTE: Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests.
- Unvaccinated kids departing before December 17, 2021 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding day.
- Unvaccinated kids departing on or after December 17, 2021 must show a negative test result for a PCR test (not antigen) taken no more than 3 days before boarding day.
- Kids’ pre-cruise test cannot be taken on boarding day, because that may affect the sample taken during the kids’ test at the terminal.
- Guests under 2 years of age do not need to complete a pre-cruise test.
If you're travelling to the U.S. from
another country, you'll also need to take a test to enter the U.S.
Learn more about this
requirement
Have
questions about which tests are accepted?
Read
Our Detailed FAQ On Accepted Tests
Unvaccinated Kids Age 2-11: Additional Testing
In addition to the pre-cruise test, unvaccinated kids will take one or two more tests, depending on the length of the cruise. Royal Caribbean’s test provider will administer these, at no cost to our guests.
At the Terminal
Unvaccinated kids will take a complimentary test when checking in at the terminal. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Prior to Disembarking
For cruises that are 5 nights or longer, unvaccinated kids will take a
complimentary antigen test onboard before the cruise ends. Guests will be
notified onboard about how to register for this test.
Guests under 2 years of age will not be tested.
Sailings longer than 10 nights may have additional onboard testing requirements.
Learn more about the different options available to you for completing your pre-cruise test
Testing Requirements
All Guests: Required Pre-Cruise Testing
Before arriving on boarding day, you’ll need to take a COVID-19 test on your own, at your own expense, to meet U.S. CDC boarding requirements.
- Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding day.
- Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding day. Kids’ pre-cruise test cannot be taken on boarding day, because that may affect the sample taken during the kids’ test at the terminal.
- Guests under 2 years of age do not need to complete a pre-cruise test.
If you're travelling to the U.S. from another country, you'll also need to take a test to enter the U.S.
Learn more about this requirement
Have questions about which tests are accepted?
Read Our Detailed FAQ On Accepted Tests
Kids Age 2-11: Additional Testing
In addition to the pre-cruise test, kids will take one or two more tests, depending on the length of the cruise. Royal Caribbean’s test provider will administer these, at no cost to our guests.
At the Terminal
For all cruises, kids will take a complimentary PCR test when checking in at the terminal. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Prior to Disembarking
For cruises that are 5 nights or longer, kids will take a complimentary antigen test onboard before the cruise ends. Vaccinated guests who require a COVID-19 test for re-entry into their country may receive one onboard as well. Guests will be notified onboard about how to register for this test.
Guests under 2 years of age will not be tested.
Sailings longer than 10 nights may have additional onboard testing requirements.
Learn more about the different options available to you for completing your pre-cruise test
Travel Documents Checklist
You’ll need to have the following documents when you arrive to board the ship.
- A Passport Book or Passport Card, valid for at least six months after your cruise, is strongly recommended. If you do not have a Passport, you may present a state-certified U.S. Birth Certificate (not a "baby feet" hospital certificate or baptismal paper). Guests age 16 and older that present a Birth Certificate will also need to provide a valid Driver's License or picture ID issued by the government.
- COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with the final dose of your vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing. This is a requirement for all guests age 12 and older. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been fully vaccinated may present proof of vaccination and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
- COVID-19 Test Result: Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests. Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result taken no more than 3 days before boarding — kids departing before December 17, 2021 can show a PCR or antigen test result; kids departing on or after December 17, 2021 must show a PCR test result only. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
- Health Questionnaire to be completed on our Royal Caribbean App the day before you board.
Cruise Ready Recap
Follow these steps for a smooth boarding day.
- Get Vaccinated: It’s required for guests 12 and older.
- 30 Days Before: Download the Royal Caribbean App and check in for your cruise. Once in the app, you’ll select a 30-minute arrival time slot for your boarding day. It is very important you stick to this arrival window, as we’re arranging the boarding and testing process to accommodate a certain number of guests at one time.
- 2 or 3 Days Before: Get your pre-cruise test. Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a test taken no more than 3 days before boarding. Kids departing before December 17, 2021 can show a PCR or antigen test result; guests departing after December 17, 2021 must show a PCR test result only. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been fully vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
- 1 Day Before: All guests must complete our Health Questionnaire on the Royal App.
What to Expect On Boarding Day
Arrive Only During Your Time Slot
It is very important that all guests arrive at the terminal within the arrival time slot you selected during Royal App check-in. Those who arrive early will not be able to begin boarding, and those who arrive late will need to wait until we are able to work them into another group.
- We’ll guide you step by step on document validation.
- For those parties traveling with unvaccinated guests, we will also guide you through the COVID-19 testing process. Expect a short wait time for results before boarding.
- Make sure you wear your face mask at all times during the boarding process.
Onboard the Ship
Mask Guidance
Here’s our current guidance for facial coverings for all guests (except those under age 2, who do not need to wear a mask at any time).
Masks are NOT required to be worn:
- In open-air areas of the ship, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- In the pool or any activity where they may become wet.
- At venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants and shows.
- In your stateroom when you are with your traveling party.
- While visiting our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- By any guest under the age of 2.
Masks ARE required to be worn:
- While indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking.
- While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.
Mask-Free Spaces
Some venues and nightlife events will be for vaccinated guests only. Masks won't be required in these venues. Vaccinated parents are invited to enjoy these experiences while their kids are living it up at Adventure Ocean. Learn more about vaccinated venues onboard
More Space for Your Family
If you’ve sailed with us before, you’ll notice there are fewer guests onboard, letting you ease back into vacation mode. The ship’s venues are set up to easily allow for physical distancing throughout your time onboard, and there will be signage to guide you.
Dining
All dining areas will feature spaced, sanitized seating. Nearly all restaurants and cafes will be available to all guests, though a select few specialty restaurants may be reserved for vaccinated guests only.
In the Main Dining Room, which spans multiple decks, we will designate areas for parents and unvaccinated kids, and areas for vaccinated parties only. My Time Dining will not be available to parties that include unvaccinated guests.
If you prefer a buffet, Windjammer will be open to everyone for breakfast and lunch, and the food will be served by our crew. We recommend that you make dining reservations via Cruise Planner before your cruise or using the Royal Caribbean app onboard.
Entertainment
Theaters and activity venues will offer spaced seating and more showtimes. Some activities, showtimes, or seating areas will be reserved for vaccinated guests only. Be sure to make show reservations once onboard using the Royal Caribbean app.
Going Ashore in Ports of Call
Healthy Shore Excursions
Royal Caribbean has worked with local tour operators to ensure they follow our Healthy Sail Panel health guidance for all Shore Excursions in ports of call. These tours are available at a variety of price points and may be purchased in advance on Cruise Planner or once onboard using the Royal Caribbean App.
Requirements for Going Ashore
Below are our current tour requirements at ports of call, which are subject to change as we continue to evaluate circumstances around the globe.
Vaccinated Guests
Fully vaccinated parties may book a shore excursion or visit most ports freely — with the exception of those listed below, which will require tours for all guests who wish to go ashore in December, regardless of their vaccination status.
- St. Lucia
- Barbados
- St. Kitts
At the above destinations, vaccinated guests may depart the ship and visit the enclosed port area on their own. If they wish to visit further into the island, they must have booked a Royal Caribbean shore excursion, or participate in a government approved tour. The government approved tours are unaffiliated with Royal Caribbean.
Tours Required for Families With Unvaccinated Children
Families traveling with unvaccinated kids must purchase a local tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore in ports of call. This applies to all ports of call except Perfect Day at CocoCay, Labadee and Port Canaveral, Florida. Vaccinated parents wishing to go ashore freely can visit our youth facilities onboard to learn about drop off program hours and availability, and reserve time for their child on the day they wish to go in port.
Tours Recommended in Port Canaveral, Florida
For ships that stop at Port Canaveral, we strongly recommend that families traveling with unvaccinated kids purchase a local tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore. Additionally, we recommend the use of face masks when going ashore.
No Tours Required at Perfect Day or Labadee
Tours or planned activities are not required of any guest who wishes to go ashore at our private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, regardless of age or vaccination status.
Questions?
- Visit our FAQs for more details.
- Or give us a call so we can get your questions answered. We look forward to welcoming you onboard soon.
Getting Ready To Cruise From Bridgetown, Barbados
Here are the latest protocols for our guests sailing from Barbados, which we will continue to update as public health situations evolve. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing.
Vaccination Requirement
All guests age 12 and older must present proof of full COVID-19 vaccination with the final dose administered at least 14 days before sailing. This is a requirement of Royal Caribbean to sail — guests who are unable to show proof of full vaccination will not be permitted to board. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
Due to the requirements of destinations on your Barbados itinerary, we can only accept vaccines that are authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Each guest’s regimen must include at least two doses of vaccine unless the guest received the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. No exceptions will be made, even if the guest's resident country has authorized a single-shot regimen for a two dose vaccine.
Mixed Vaccines
For Barbados itineraries, we will accept a mixed mRNA vaccination series consisting of one dose of Pfizer and one dose of Moderna, as long as the doses were administered at least 28 days apart. Mixed vaccine regimens of brands other than Pfizer and Moderna are not permitted for this itinerary.
All crew onboard the ship and at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, are fully vaccinated.
Testing Requirements
Required Pre-Arrival and Pre-Cruise TestingTesting is required to enter Barbados and to board the ship. These requirements vary depending on guests’ age and vaccination status.
PCR Testing
- All travelers age 5 and older require a negative PCR COVID-19 test result to fly into Barbados regardless of vaccination status. The test must be taken within the 3 days before the day you fly into the country. You must upload the result to Barbados’ online Immigration/Customs Form, and show it to authorities upon arriving. Learn more about island entry requirements at Visit Barbados
- Unvaccinated guests age 2 to 11 must show a negative PCR COVID-19 test result at the cruise terminal for a test taken no more than 3 days before the day you board the ship. If timed properly, the same PCR test result provided for entry into Barbados can satisfy this requirement.
Additional Antigen Testing
- All Royal Caribbean guests age 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status, will take a COVID-19 antigen test at the terminal prior to boarding the ship. Royal Caribbean’s test provider will administer these, at no cost to our guests. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Guests under 2 years of age do not have any testing requirements to board the ship.
Required Testing to Debark in Barbados
All Royal Caribbean guests age 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status, will require a complimentary COVID-19 antigen test provided by Royal Caribbean’s test provider to re-enter Barbados. In most cases, this test could also satisfy re-entry requirements into guests’ home country. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your country’s specific requirements prior to traveling. More information on this test will be provided once onboard.
Travel Documents Checklist
You’ll need to have the following documents to travel to Barbados and board the ship.
Barbados Immigration/Customs Form
All travelers, or their legal guardians, must complete the Immigration/Customs form to enter Barbados. This is available on the BIMSafe app, or at travelform.gov.bb, and should be completed 24-72 hours before you leave, including uploading your negative test result. Learn more
- A Passport Book, valid for at least six months after your cruise.
- COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with the final dose of your vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing. This is a requirement for all guests age 12 and older. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been fully vaccinated may present proof of vaccination as well and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
- COVID-19 Test Result: All guests age 5 and older require a negative PCR test result to enter the country, regardless of vaccination status must show a negative PCR COVID-19 test result at the cruise terminal. Unvaccinated guests age 2 to 11 must also show a negative PCR COVID-19 test result at the cruise terminal.
- Health Questionnaire to be completed on our Royal Caribbean App the day before you board.
Cruise Ready Recap
Follow these steps for a smooth boarding day.
- Get Vaccinated: It’s required for guests 12 and older.
- 30 Days Before: Download the Royal Caribbean App and check in for your cruise. Once in the app, you’ll select a 30-minute arrival time slot for your boarding day. It is very important you stick to this arrival window, as we’re arranging the boarding and testing process to accommodate a certain number of guests at one time.
- 2-3 Days Before: Get your pre-arrival PCR test required by Barbados to enter the country, and by Royal Caribbean to board the ship for unvaccinated guests age 2 to 11.
- 1-3 Days Before: Complete your Barbados Immigration/Customs Form, including uploading your negative test result.
- 1 Day Before: All guests must complete our Health Questionnaire on the Royal App.
What to Expect On Boarding Day
Arrive Only During Your Time Slot
It is very important that all guests arrive at the cruise terminal within the arrival time slot you selected during Royal App check-in. Those who arrive early will not be able to begin boarding, and those who arrive late will need to wait until we are able to work them into another group.
- We’ll guide you step by step on document validation.
- We will also guide you through the COVID-19 testing process. Expect a short wait time for results before boarding.
- Make sure you wear your face mask at all times during the boarding process.
Onboard the Ship
Mask Guidance
Here’s our current guidance for facial coverings for all guests (except those under age 2, who do not need to wear a mask at any time).
Masks are NOT required to be worn:
- In open-air areas of the ship, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- In the pool or any activity where they may become wet.
- At venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants and shows.
- In your stateroom when you are with your traveling party.
- While visiting our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- By any guest under the age of 2.
Masks ARE required to be worn:
- While indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking.
- While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.
Mask-Free Spaces
Some venues and nightlife events will be for vaccinated guests only. Masks won't be required in these venues. Vaccinated parents are invited to enjoy these experiences while their kids are living it up at Adventure Ocean. Learn more about vaccinated venues onboard
More Space for Your Family
If you’ve sailed with us before, you’ll notice there are fewer guests onboard, letting you ease back into vacation mode. The ship’s venues are set up to easily allow for physical distancing throughout your time onboard, and there will be signage to guide you.
Dining
All dining areas will feature spaced, sanitized seating. Nearly all restaurants and cafes will be available to all guests, though a select few specialty restaurants may be reserved for vaccinated guests only.
In the Main Dining Room, which spans multiple decks, we will designate areas for parents and unvaccinated kids, and areas for vaccinated parties only. My Time Dining will not be available to parties that include unvaccinated guests.
If you prefer a buffet, Windjammer will be open to everyone for breakfast and lunch, and the food will be served by our crew. We recommend that you make dining reservations via Cruise Planner before your cruise or using the Royal Caribbean app onboard.
Entertainment
Theaters and activity venues will offer spaced seating and more showtimes. Some activities, showtimes, or seating areas will be reserved for vaccinated guests only. Be sure to make show reservations once onboard using the Royal Caribbean app.
Going Ashore in Ports of Call
Tours Required to Go Ashore
Due to current requirements of your itinerary, all guests on December sailings from Barbados will need to book a tour if they wish to go ashore in certain ports of call, regardless of vaccination status. Please see below information regarding going ashore for each port.
St. Maarten and Antigua
Fully vaccinated parties may book a tour or visit St. Maarten and Antigua freely. Parties traveling with unvaccinated children must purchase a tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore.
St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Grenada and Dominica
Fully vaccinated parties may depart the ship and visit the enclosed port area on their own. If they wish to visit further into the island, they must purchase a tour through Royal Caribbean, or participate in a government approved tour. Government approved tours are unaffiliated with Royal Caribbean. Parties travelling with unvaccinated children must purchase a tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore.
St. Vincent
All guests must purchase a tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore, regardless of vaccination status.
We will continue to update booked guests and the information on this page as we know more about this requirement for future sailings.
Healthy Shore Excursions
Royal Caribbean has worked with local tour operators to ensure they follow our Healthy Sail Panel health guidance for all Shore Excursions in ports of call. These tours are available at a variety of price points and may be purchased in advance on Cruise Planner or once onboard using the Royal Caribbean App.
Questions?
- Visit our FAQs for more details.
- Or give us a call so we can get your questions answered. We look forward to welcoming you onboard soon.
Getting Ready To Cruise From San Juan, Puerto Rico
Here are the latest protocols for our guests sailing from San Juan, which we will continue to update as public health situations evolve. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing.
Guests traveling into San Juan from a country other than the U.S. should be sure to look into any requirements your own home country may have for exiting or re-entering its borders. Additionally, international guests on connecting flights to or from San Juan should make sure to familiarize themselves with local requirements in the country where their connection takes place prior to traveling.
Vaccination Requirement
All Royal Caribbean guests age 12 and older must present proof of full COVID-19 vaccination with the final dose administered at least 14 days before sailing. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination as well and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
Each guest’s regimen must include at least two doses of vaccine unless the guest received the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. This guidance is per the U.S. CDC, and no exceptions will be made, even if the guest's resident country has authorized a single-shot regimen for a two dose vaccine.
All crew onboard the ship and at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, are fully vaccinated.
Testing Requirements
Required Testing to Enter Puerto Rico
The island requires a negative PCR or antigen COVID-19 test result for certain travelers to enter depending on their vaccination status and point of origin.
If you’re flying in from the U.S.
- Vaccinated guests have no testing requirement to enter Puerto Rico.
- Unvaccinated kids must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.
If you’re flying in from an international country
- All travelers age 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.
If you are already in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico does not require a test from you.
Guests under 2 years of age do not have test requirements to enter Puerto Rico.
All Guests: Required Testing to Board the Ship
You’ll need to bring a negative test result to the cruise terminal to board the ship. It can be the same result you used to enter Puerto Rico, provided you time it right.
- Vaccinated guests must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding day. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests.
- Unvaccinated kids departing before December 17, 2021 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding day.
- Unvaccinated kids departing on or after December 17, 2021 must show a negative test result for a PCR test (not antigen) taken no more than 3 days before boarding day.
- Kids’ pre-cruise test cannot be taken on boarding day, because that may affect the sample taken during the kids’ test at the terminal.
- Guests under 2 years of age do not need to complete a pre-cruise test.
Have questions about pre-cruise testing?
Learn more about different options for completing your test
Learn how to calculate which days you can take your pre-cruise test
Unvaccinated Kids Age 2-11: Additional Testing
In addition to the pre-cruise test, unvaccinated kids will take two more tests. Royal Caribbean’s test provider will administer these, at no cost to our guests.
At the Terminal
Unvaccinated kids will take a complimentary test when checking in at the terminal. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Prior to Disembarking
Unvaccinated kids will take a complimentary antigen test onboard before the cruise ends. Guests will be notified onboard about how to register for this test.
Guests under 2 years of age do not have test requirements to board the ship.
Travel Documents Checklist
You’ll need to have the following documents to travel to Puerto Rico and board the ship.
Puerto Rico TravelSafe Declaration
All travelers age 2 and up must complete the TravelSafe Declaration to enter Puerto Rico. Guests under 18 must be added to their parent or guardian’s form. Vaccinated travelers will need to upload their proof of vaccination. Learn more
- A TravelSafe Airport Exit Confirmation number and QR Code will be provided once you complete the required Online Travel Declaration Form.
- A Passport Book or Passport Card, valid for at least six months after your cruise, is strongly recommended. If you do not have a Passport, you may present a state-certified U.S. Birth Certificate (not a "baby feet" hospital certificate or baptismal paper). Guests age 16 and older that present a Birth Certificate will also need to provide a valid Driver's License or picture ID issued by the government.
- COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with the final dose of your vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing. This is a requirement for all guests age 12 and older. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination as well and follow the protocols for vaccinated guests.
- COVID-19 Test Result to Enter Puerto Rico: See details in the Testing Requirement section above, to understand if you will need a test to enter the island.
- COVID-19 Test Result to Board Ship: Vaccinated guests must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests. Unvaccinated kids must show a negative test result for test taken no more than 3 days before boarding — kids departing before December 17, 2021 can show a PCR or antigen test result; kids departing on or after December 17, 2021 must show a PCR test result only. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
- Health Questionnaire to be completed on our Royal Caribbean App the day before you board.
Cruise Ready Recap
Follow these steps for a smooth boarding day.
- Get Vaccinated: It’s required for guests 12 and older.
- 30 Days Before: Download the Royal Caribbean App and check in for your cruise. Once in the app, you’ll select a 30-minute arrival time slot for your boarding day. It is very important you stick to this arrival window, as we’re arranging the boarding and testing process to accommodate a certain number of guests at one time.
- 2 or 3 Days Before: Get your pre-cruise test. Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a test taken no more than 3 days before boarding. Kids departing before December 17, 2021 can show a PCR or antigen test result; guests departing after December 17, 2021 must show a PCR test result only. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may present proof of full vaccination and follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
- 1 Day Before: All guests must complete our Health Questionnaire on the Royal App.
- Anytime before arriving in Puerto Rico: Complete your TravelSafe Declaration
What to Expect On Boarding Day
Arrive Only During Your Time Slot
It is very important that all guests arrive at the cruise terminal within the arrival time slot you selected during Royal App check-in. Those who arrive early will not be able to begin boarding, and those who arrive late will need to wait until we are able to work them into another group.
- We’ll guide you step by step on document validation.
- For those parties traveling with unvaccinated kids, we will also guide you through the COVID-19 testing process. Expect a short wait time for results before boarding.
- Make sure you wear your face mask at all times during the boarding process.
Onboard the Ship
Mask Guidance
Here’s our current guidance for facial coverings for all guests (except those under age 2, who do not need to wear a mask at any time).
Masks are NOT required to be worn:
- In open-air areas of the ship, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- In the pool or any activity where they may become wet.
- At venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants and shows.
- In your stateroom when you are with your traveling party.
- While visiting our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, unless you are in a crowded setting.
- By any guest under the age of 2.
Masks ARE required to be worn:
- While indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking.
- While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.
Mask-Free Spaces
Some venues and nightlife events will be for vaccinated guests only. Masks won't be required in these venues. Vaccinated parents are invited to enjoy these experiences while their kids are living it up at Adventure Ocean. Learn more about vaccinated venues onboard
More Space for Your Family
If you’ve sailed with us before, you’ll notice there are fewer guests onboard, letting you ease back into vacation mode. The ship’s venues are set up to easily allow for physical distancing throughout your time onboard, and there will be signage to guide you.
Dining
All dining areas will feature spaced, sanitized seating. Nearly all restaurants and cafes will be available to all guests, though a select few specialty restaurants may be reserved for vaccinated guests only.
In the Main Dining Room, which spans multiple decks, we will designate areas for parents and unvaccinated kids, and areas for vaccinated parties only. My Time Dining will not be available to parties that include unvaccinated guests.
If you prefer a buffet, Windjammer will be open to everyone for breakfast and lunch, and the food will be served by our crew. We recommend that you make dining reservations via Cruise Planner before your cruise or using the Royal Caribbean app onboard.
Entertainment
Theaters and activity venues will offer spaced seating and more showtimes. Some activities, showtimes, or seating areas will be reserved for vaccinated guests only. Be sure to make show reservations once onboard using the Royal Caribbean app.
Going Ashore in Ports of Call
Healthy Shore Excursions
Royal Caribbean has worked with local tour operators to ensure they follow our Healthy Sail Panel health guidance for all Shore Excursions in ports of call. These tours are available at a variety of price points and may be purchased in advance on Cruise Planner or once onboard using the Royal Caribbean App.
Requirements for Going Ashore
Below are our current tour requirements at ports of call, which are subject to change as we continue to evaluate circumstances around the globe.
Vaccinated Guests
Fully vaccinated parties may book a shore excursion or visit most ports freely — with the exception of those listed below, which will require tours for all guests who wish to go ashore in December, regardless of their vaccination status.
- St. Lucia
- Barbados
- St. Kitts
At the above destinations, vaccinated guests may depart the ship and visit the enclosed port area on their own. If they wish to visit further into the island, they must have booked a Royal Caribbean shore excursion, or participate in a government approved tour. The government approved tours are unaffiliated with Royal Caribbean.
Tours Required for Families With Unvaccinated Children
Families traveling with unvaccinated kids must purchase a local tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore in ports of call. This applies to all ports of call except Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Port Canaveral, Florida. Vaccinated parents wishing to go ashore freely can visit our youth facilities onboard to learn about drop off program hours and availability, and reserve time for their child on the day they wish to go in port.
Questions?
- Visit our FAQs for more details.
- Or give us a call so we can get your questions answered. We look forward to welcoming you onboard soon.
Per local authorities' requirements, face masks will be worn onboard by crew members and guests to help keep everyone safer. Face masks are required in indoor and outdoor spaces, with some exceptions. In restaurants, cafes, bars or lounges, seated guests may eat and drink without masks. Masks should not be worn in situations where they could get wet, such as at the pool. Masks should not be worn during strenuous exercise, but are required for light workouts. You do not need to wear a mask in your stateroom or on your balcony. Any time you remove your mask, take care to maintain physical distance of at least 2 meters (6 feet) between your travel party and others.
| Location | Mask Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In stateroom | Face masks not required | Also not required on your stateroom balcony |
| Open air decks | Face masks not required | Face masks must be worn when physical distancing cannot be maintained with people outside your travel group |
| Pools & Whirlpools | Face masks not required | Face masks cannot be worn in pools and whirlpools, as a wet mask could cause breathing issues. Always maintain physical distance. |
| Waterslides & FlowRider | Face masks not required | No face mask needed while riding any water ride, but should be worn in line |
| Sports deck | Face masks may be required | Some activities like the zip line, rock climbing, table tennis and sports court will require a face mask |
| Indoor spaces | Face masks required May be removed while seating, to actively eat and drink | May be removed while seating, to actively eat and/or drink |
| Location | Mask Requirements |
|---|---|
| In stateroom | Face masks not required, also not required on your stateroom balcony |
| Open air decks | Face masks not required when observing physical distancing must be worn when engaging crew or other travel parties |
| Pools | Face masks not required when observing physical distancing must be worn when engaging crew or other travel parties |
| Whirlpools | Face masks not required Only one travel party at a time allowed in each tub |
| Waterslides & FlowRider | Face masks not required |
| Indoor spaces | Face masks required May be removed while seating, to actively eat and drink |
Face Mask Must-Haves
• At least two layers of tight-weave fabric
• Loops that go around ears
• Covers nose and mouth
• Fits face closely
• Allows you to breathe easily
• New face mask each day (or washed daily)
Learn more about our new protocols
In partnership with our Healthy Sail Panel, we’ve developed comprehensive protocols for every part of the ship — as well as measures to keep you safe even while you’re exploring onshore. So all you have to focus on is having your best vacation.
We’re fully prepared with immediate medical evaluations, rapid testing and more critical care beds on each ship in the event of a suspected case of COVID-19.
Learn more
We’ve partnered with expert medical and scientific minds to guide us in the development of comprehensive protocols to protect you and the ones you love.
Learn more
Still have questions about our health & safety standards?
From pre-boarding testing to getting you back home safely, we've got answers.
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions
or call us at 800-256-6649