first cruise on the Majesty

[msjaxson]

My husband and I and two of our close friends will be taking a Cruise on the Majesty of the Seas on October 13th out of miami does anyone have any tips on what to do in advance. Also I've been on Carnival before and was able to bring a cooler full of drinks because I was warned how expensive things will be on the boat do you think that is possiable on RCCL.Last question do you think I should get the travel insurance since we are traveling during hurricane season and if so what does it cover?

[Karen Knowlton]

You should definitely buy travel insurance! It can help you recoup any losses you might have should your flights be cancelled and you miss the cruise (there are restrictions, so be sure to check the policy details), and can also help reimburse you for expenses should you have a medical problem that needs treatment while on the cruise. There are often other coverages, such as for acquiring some basics if your luggage is lost, etc.

As far as bringing a cooler of drinks onboard, chances are pretty big that it would be confiscated (and returned to you at the end of the cruise). There are other threads on this subject on this forum, which you can do a search for.

Not sure what you mean by "what to do in advance" - packing? other preparations? I would advise having a passport; the time is coming shortly when everyone will be required to have one to get back into the U.S., and you have plenty of time to get one before your October cruise. They last for 10 years and if you have one, you don't have to mess with the certified birth certificates, etc.

[penny3333]

I would also suggest filling out as much of the paperwork as you can, either on line or in hard copy before you reach the pier. You can purchase a soda card, which is less expensive than paying for each glass of soda. Ice Tea, Coffee, Water (not bottled), and juice are free. Have a wonderful time!

[Chase]

We were on the Mariner last year and brought our own sodas without a problem. We even went as far as calling Royal Caribean directly and asking if a cooler full of sodas was ok and they said yes. We walked through security with the cooler in plain site and even put it through the x-ray machine. If you are concerned call Royal Caribbean directly and ask, but I am sure they will allow you to do it.

[msjaxson]

Thank you so much for all the great advice, I will do as much in advance as possiable.