Are babies allowed in pools on royal carbbean cruise?

Traveling with a baby on a cruise can be a wonderful family experience—but when it comes to swimming pools, many parents ask an important question:

The short answer is yes—but with important restrictions that every parent must understand before sailing.

This in-depth guide provides accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date information on Royal Caribbean’s pool policies for babies and infants. It includes official cruise line rules, health-based explanations, real-world examples, and expert recommendations from credible organizations like the CDC, WHO, and NIH.

Whether you’re planning your first cruise with an infant or comparing cruise lines for family travel, this article gives you everything you need to know—clearly, honestly, and safely.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Pool Policy for Babies

Are Babies Allowed in Royal Caribbean Pools?

Yes, babies are allowed in certain Royal Caribbean pools—but only if they meet specific requirements.

Royal Caribbean follows strict health and safety standards that are influenced by international maritime regulations and public health guidance.

Official Royal Caribbean Policy (Summary)

According to Royal Caribbean’s publicly available guest safety guidelines:

• Babies and infants who are not fully toilet-trained are NOT allowed in standard swimming pools or hot tubs

• Swim diapers do NOT qualify as toilet training

• Babies ARE allowed in designated splash areas and baby-friendly water zones

• Hot tubs are prohibited for all infants and young children

• Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data showing any exceptions to these rules, even with parental supervision.

Why Royal Caribbean Restricts Babies From Main Pools

Health & Safety Reasons Behind the Policy

Royal Caribbean’s rules are not arbitrary—they are grounded in public health science and international sanitation regulations.

1. Disease Prevention in Enclosed Water Systems

Cruise ships use recirculating water systems, which means:

• Contamination spreads faster than in open water

• One incident can affect hundreds of guests

• Babies are more likely to introduce pathogens unknowingly

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Swim diapers do not prevent the spread of germs

• Fecal contamination is a leading cause of recreational water illnesses (RWIs)

Source: CDC – Healthy Swimming & Recreational Water Illnesses

2. Maritime Health Regulations

Cruise ships must comply with:

• CDC Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP)

• International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards

• World Health Organization (WHO) water safety guidelines

These regulations prioritize preventive measures, which is why Royal Caribbean enforces stricter rules than many land-based resorts.

Source: WHO – Guidelines for Safe Recreational Water Environments

3. Infant Health Risks

Medical authorities warn that infants face increased risks in shared pools, including:

• Cryptosporidium exposure

• E. coli and norovirus transmission

• Chemical sensitivity to chlorine

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), infants have immature immune systems, making them more vulnerable to waterborne pathogens.

Source: NIH – Infant Immune Development and Environmental Exposure

Where CAN Babies Play in Water on Royal Caribbean Ships?

While babies are restricted from main pools, Royal Caribbean is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines and offers several safe alternatives.

Splashaway Bay® – Royal Caribbean’s Baby-Friendly Water Area

Splashaway Bay® is Royal Caribbean’s signature aqua play zone, available on many ships.

Key Features

• Zero-depth splash pads

• Gentle fountains and sprinklers

• Soft, non-slip surfaces

• No standing water accumulation

Baby Policy

Requirement	Allowed
Swim diapers	Yes
Parental supervision	Required
Standing water	No
Toilet training	Not required

Because Splashaway Bay uses flow-through water systems, it meets health guidelines for infants.

Ships With Splashaway Bay®

While availability varies, many popular ships include Splashaway Bay:

• Oasis-class ships (e.g., Wonder of the Seas)

• Quantum-class ships

• Select Freedom-class ships

• Always verify amenities on Royal Caribbean’s official website before booking.

Comparison: Royal Caribbean vs Other Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Babies in Main Pools	Baby Splash Areas	Swim Diapers Allowed
Royal Caribbean	No	Yes	Only in splash areas
Disney Cruise Line	No	Yes	Only in designated zones
Carnival Cruise Line	No	Limited	Designated areas only
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	Some ships	Restricted

Royal Caribbean’s policy aligns with industry best practices, not stricter-than-normal rules.

Source: Consumer Reports – Cruising With Kids: What Parents Should Know

Are Babies Allowed in Hot Tubs on Royal Caribbean?

Short Answer: No

Babies and infants are not allowed in hot tubs under any circumstances.

Why Hot Tubs Are Dangerous for Babies

According to the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics:

• Infants cannot regulate body temperature effectively

• Hot tubs increase risk of dehydration

• Elevated temperatures raise risk of overheating and fainting

Source: CDC – Hot Tub Safety Guidelines

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan Pool Time With a Baby on Royal Caribbean

Step 1: Choose the Right Ship

• Look for ships with Splashaway Bay®

• Confirm age-appropriate facilities during booking

Step 2: Pack the Essentials

• Approved swim diapers (bring extras)

• UV-protective swimwear

• Baby-safe sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)

Step 3: Follow Posted Pool Rules

• Respect lifeguard instructions

• Avoid peak hours to reduce exposure

• Never attempt to bring babies into restricted pools

Step 4: Prioritize Hygiene

• Rinse baby before and after water play

• Change diapers immediately after splash time

Expert Tips for Cruising With Babies

Pediatrician-Backed Advice

According to Harvard Health Publishing:

• Limit water exposure for infants under 12 months

• Avoid crowded water areas during peak times

• Monitor for signs of skin irritation or fatigue

Source: Harvard Health – Water Safety for Infants

Cruise Veteran Parent Insights

Experienced parents recommend:

• Morning splash time (cleaner water)

• Short play sessions (10–20 minutes)

• Using shaded areas to prevent sun exposure

Common Myths About Babies in Cruise Ship Pools

“Swim diapers make it safe”

 False. Swim diapers do not prevent germ leakage.

“If I hold my baby, it’s allowed”

 False. Supervision does not override health rules.

“Rules vary by ship”

 Mostly false. Policies are fleet-wide with minimal variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a 6-month-old go in Royal Caribbean pools?

No. Babies under toilet-trained age are restricted from main pools but allowed in splash areas.

2. Are swim diapers allowed in pools?

Only in designated splash zones—not in standard pools or hot tubs.

3. Does Royal Caribbean check diaper status?

Yes. Lifeguards and staff actively enforce rules.

4. Can toddlers who aren’t potty-trained use pools?

No. Toilet training is required for main pools.

5. Are private baby pools available?

No private pools, but Splashaway Bay is designed for infants.

6. Do indoor pools allow babies?

No. Indoor and outdoor pools follow the same rules.

7. Can babies swim with floaties?

Floatation devices do not change pool access rules.

8. Are exceptions made for medical needs?

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on medical exemptions.

9. Is pool water heated?

Yes, but temperature does not affect baby restrictions.

10. What happens if rules are ignored?

Guests may be asked to leave the pool area for safety compliance.

Final Verdict: Are Babies Allowed in Pools on Royal Caribbean?

Yes—but only in designated baby-friendly splash areas.

Royal Caribbean’s policies are:

• Scientifically justified

• Aligned with global health standards

• Designed to protect infants and all passengers

By understanding these rules and planning accordingly, parents can enjoy a safe, stress-free cruise experience with their babies.

Trusted Sources & References

• Royal Caribbean International – Guest Safety Policies

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov)

• World Health Organization (WHO.int)

• National Institutes of Health (NIH.gov)

• Harvard Health Publishing

• Consumer Reports – Cruise Travel Safety

• PubMed – Recreational Water Illness Studies