First Cruise in 8 years

[mamajenn]

Trying to catch up on everything that has changed since our last cruise.  My husband I have been on 7 or 8 RC cruises but only 1 with 1 kid, and now we have 2.  We decided to take a random cruise in November on Explorer of the Seas with a deal we couldn't pass up, and I'm excited but feeling overwhelmed by all the changes!  

 

I have the app.  I know we have to pick a boarding time so many days before.  We're all vaxxed so no testing to worry about now.  Can we still get paper schedules for the next day?  We used to withdraw cash on board without a fee, for the casino and tipping.  My boys will probably prefer the buffet but I want the main dining room experience a few times.  I'm working on booking excursions (we always did our own thing based on excellent advice from here BC).

 

Any other suggestions or obvious things I should know or be doing?  Any other major changes to the cruising experience? Thanks for any help!  I have only received one payment confirmation email from RCI but no other email communication of any kind, is that normal?

[neverbeenhere]

Can we still get paper schedules for the next day?  - Yes

 

Any other suggestions or obvious things I should know or be doing? - Yes, relax

 

Any other major changes to the cruising experience? Major Changes are relative

 

I have only received one payment confirmation email from RCI but no other email communication of any kind, is that normal? - you should have an invoice, if you booked last week. If you booked today or yesterday, it may take some time.  I suggest, Next time use a travel agent.

 

The ships still float in the water. Things change every cruise so it would be hard to relate changes. Relax, read the emails you receive from Royal, enjoy your cruise.

Edited August 31, 2022 by neverbeenhere

[shipgeeks]

How exciting to be returning to cruising!

Re excursions, there is a lot of helpful information re ports of call here on CC, further down on the main page of the Forum.  If the ports are unfamiliar to you (or even if you've been there), it's always worth checking for new comments and info from time to time.  And looking at the RC excursion options give a good introduction to what might be available, too.  And of course, sometimes it's nice to just get off the ship and wander, or even to stay on the ship!  Your choice.

If more questions occur to you between now and then, please keep coming back.  We love to share ideas!