My policy is to never have leftover wine.
Yes, you may bring the bottle “back to the ship.” You may be able to get the bottle to your stateroom.
Finish the wine while ashore to solve the potential issue.
Yes, things change. Talk to folks about the 2011 conversion, if you want issues.
Crown lounge is nice, but generally the best during the hours outside of the “happy hours”.
Alaska - some say you “need” a balcony, we say; “Nope”
most the time the balcony is too cold to use efficiently. Save where you, views are available up top. Think solarium!
I say; Go, if you get the chance. BUT...
The Bridge tour is the unique tour, unless your brother-in-law has a biggggg boat.
The Galley tour can be had in your hometown at the large commercial bakery around the block. The Backstage tour is the same as the tour at the local Community College or Community theater stage.
Best way to make the tours better is to prepare some interesting questions to ask the crew members.
I've been bringing a sextent for years... Opps different item. Really, I can't think of any "Fun" items that we bring. We bring gum/particular mints because you can get it on the ships. (I keep it from being stuck under the seats) Yes, we bring the duct tape, 20+ ft of picture wire, a travel cork screw, zip ties, tiny all-in-one tool.
The "handicap" rooms rock!!! If I could get one every time, we wouldn't need to book suites. I'll leave it to the market forces to guide Royal as to how many rooms of various types they need on their ships.
Walking: try early morning stairs and floors walking
Music Hall is sometimes good. (But did they change this to something else??)
Solarium- Do it - Be it!