# **How Do I Book Shore Excursions with Royal Caribbean International?**

**You can book Royal Caribbean shore excursions online through the Cruise Planner, via the mobile app, or by calling 1-877-897-7186 for assistance with available tour options and reservations.**

Planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean International is an exciting experience, and one of the highlights of any voyage is exploring different destinations through shore excursions. Whether you dream of swimming with dolphins, exploring ancient ruins, zip-lining through tropical forests, tasting local cuisine, or simply relaxing on a private beach, shore excursions help you make the most of every port stop. Understanding how to book these excursions, what options are available, and how to prepare for them ensures a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

This comprehensive guide explains *how to book Royal Caribbean shore excursions step-by-step*, along with tips, policies, and advice to help you choose the best activities for your cruise.

# **Understanding Royal Caribbean Shore Excursions**

Shore excursions are guided or independent activities offered at each port of call during your cruise. These excursions are designed to enhance your experience by providing safe, curated, and professionally organized adventures. They cater to a wide range of interests—nature lovers, thrill-seekers, cultural travelers, families, and foodies will all find something exciting.

Royal Caribbean offers categorized excursions such as:

* Adventure and Thrill Activities
* Cultural and Historical Tours
* Wildlife and Nature Experiences
* Beach and Relaxation Outings
* Culinary Adventures
* Water Sports
* Family-Friendly Tours
* Accessible Excursions for Guests with Mobility Needs

With such variety, every traveler can find something that suits their preferences and activity level.

# **How to Book Shore Excursions with Royal Caribbean International**

Booking a shore excursion is simple, and Royal Caribbean offers multiple ways to reserve your spot. Some guests prefer booking in advance for better availability, while others wait to book onboard. Regardless of your preference, the process is user-friendly and flexible.

Below are the main methods to book your excursions:

## **1. Book Through the Royal Caribbean Website (Before Your Cruise)**

The most popular and convenient way to book is through the Royal Caribbean website. This method allows you to explore all available excursions at your leisure and compare options before your cruise begins.

### **Steps to book online:**

1. Visit the official Royal Caribbean site.
2. Log into your account using your email and password.
3. Navigate to the *“Plan My Cruise”* or *“Manage My Booking”* section.
4. Enter your reservation details (booking number, last name, and ship name).
5. Click on *“Shore Excursions”* from the planning menu.
6. Browse excursions available for your itinerary.
7. Select the excursion you want and add it to your cart.
8. Complete the checkout process using your preferred payment method.

Booking online allows you to lock in your spots early—important for popular activities that often sell out.

## **2. Use the Royal Caribbean App (Recommended!)**

The Royal Caribbean mobile app is one of the easiest tools for booking and managing excursions. The app displays real-time availability, excursion times, descriptions, and pricing.

### **How to book via the app:**

1. Download the *Royal Caribbean* app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign in and link your upcoming cruise.
3. Open the *“Shore Excursions”* section.
4. Review all available tours for each port.
5. Choose your preferred excursion and complete checkout.

The app also keeps your tickets, confirmation details, and meeting instructions in one location for easy access.

## **3. Book with a Travel Agent**

If you booked your cruise through a travel agent, they can also help you choose and book excursions. Travel agents may recommend excursions based on your interests, activity levels, or preferred pace. Some agencies even offer group excursion packages or custom tours for families and special events.

This is a great option for first-time cruisers or travelers who want additional advice before making decisions.

## **4. Book Onboard the Ship**

If you prefer to wait, you can book excursions once you board. Royal Caribbean has a dedicated Shore Excursion Desk on every ship where staff can explain options, availability, and meeting locations. The onboard interactive screens also display excursions and allow easy booking.

However, keep in mind that:

* Popular excursions may be sold out.
* Prices may increase closer to the activity date.
* Availability for small-group or specialty tours may be limited.

Booking early is highly recommended if you have your heart set on a particular experience.

# **Benefits of Booking Shore Excursions Through Royal Caribbean**

While some travelers consider booking independent tours at ports, using Royal Caribbean comes with several benefits:

### **1. Guaranteed Return to Ship**

The cruise line ensures that all Royal Caribbean-booked excursions return on time. If delays occur, the ship will wait for you. This is *not* the case for independent tours.

### **2. Safety and Quality Assurance**

Royal Caribbean partners with licensed, vetted, and reputable tour operators. Safety standards, insurance, and reliability are guaranteed.

### **3. Easy Planning**

Everything is organized for you—transportation, tickets, instructions, and guides.

### **4. Accessibility Options**

Royal Caribbean offers excursions designed for guests with mobility challenges or special needs.

### **5. Cancellation Protection**

If the port is skipped due to weather or technical reasons, you receive an automatic refund for excursions booked through Royal Caribbean.

# **When Should You Book Your Excursions?**

Booking early is always recommended because:

* Popular excursions (like dolphin encounters, glacier tours, or cultural highlights) sell out quickly.
* Early bird pricing may be available.
* You get the best selection of times and options.

Ideally, book excursions:

* **As soon as you finalize your cruise**, or
* **At least 30–60 days before sailing**

However, many cruisers choose to book their excursions the moment itineraries become available.

# **Tips for Choosing the Best Shore Excursions**

### **1. Think About Your Activity Level**

Some excursions involve walking, hiking, or strenuous activities. Choose based on your comfort and health.

### **2. Match Your Interests**

Select excursions that align with what excites you—adventure, history, wildlife, relaxation, or food experiences.

### **3. Consider Timing**

Check how long your ship will be in port. Make sure your chosen activity fits your schedule.

### **4. Read Reviews**

Royal Caribbean’s app and website include guest ratings and reviews that can help guide your decision.

### **5. Check Age Restrictions**

Some excursions have minimum ages or require adult supervision.

### **6. Prepare for Weather**

Weather conditions can impact excursions. Pack appropriate clothing and gear.

# **What Happens After You Book?**

Once your excursion is booked, Royal Caribbean will provide:

* Confirmation via email or app
* Meeting point information
* Instructions on what to bring
* Departure times
* Additional requirements, such as ID or waivers

On the day of the excursion, staff will escort groups to transportation, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

# **Can You Cancel Shore Excursions?**

Yes. Royal Caribbean typically allows cancellations:

* Up to **48 hours before** arrival at the port for most excursions
* Up to **24 hours** or less for certain tours
* Immediately refunded if the port is missed

Always review the cancellation policy in your excursion details.

# **Final Thoughts**

Booking shore excursions with Royal Caribbean International is straightforward, flexible, and designed to enhance your vacation with unforgettable experiences. Whether you book online, through the app, via a travel agent, or aboard the ship, you’ll have access to a wide range of activities in every port of call. From thrilling adventures to tranquil beach escapes, the right excursion can elevate your cruise from enjoyable to extraordinary.