We just returned from Alaska on the Royal and the tender process was very easy. We weren't in a huge hurry to get off, so we had breakfast and waited until the big rush had passed. We walked to the designated area (they'll announce where that is) they gave us a ticket and we walked right on the tender. You'll probably wait at busy times. The tenders hokd over 100 people, so it goes fast. It was a 5-10 minute ride at the most. Just around the end of the ship to avoid the landslide area. The return is just first come, first served. Being first time cruisers, we were nervous about the process, but it was very organized and they keep you informed.
