Traveling with medical needs can feel overwhelming, especially when oxygen support is involved. For many people living with COPD, asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary disorders, or sleep-related breathing issues, oxygen is not optional — it is essential. A cruise vacation should be relaxing, not stressful, and that is why one of the most commonly asked questions before sailing is:

Does Royal Caribbean allow oxygen tanks onboard?

The answer is YES. Royal Caribbean does allow oxygen tanks, concentrators, and other respiratory medical equipment for guests who rely on supplemental oxygen. However — the cruise line has specific requirements, documentation guidelines, and advance notification rules that passengers must follow.permitted types of oxygen (cylinders, portable concentrators etc.)

• medical clearance requirements

• advance notification and how to register medical needs

• onboard storage, charging, and safety rules

• how refills work (important!)

• what guests should pack and prepare

• accessibility services and support onboard

• helpful travel tips, packing checklist & safety precautions

• alternatives like renting oxygen for the duration of your cruise

By the end, you will know exactly how to plan your trip confidently, safely, and stress-free.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Oxygen Policy

Royal Caribbean recognizes that medical accessibility is essential for many guests. As part of their Accessible Sailing Program, the cruise line permits passengers to bring necessary respiratory medical equipment as long as proper documentation is completed in advance.

Their policy covers:

Type of Oxygen EquipmentAllowed on Cruise?Notes

Portable oxygen concentrators (POC)  AllowedFAA-approved models preferred

Pre-filled oxygen cylinders/tanks AllowedMust be arranged independently — ship does not fill tanks

Liquid oxygen equipment But limitedMust notify cruise line well in advance

CPAP/BiPAP machines AllowedBring extension cords & distilled water if needed

Onboard oxygen refill by medical staff Not availableYou must pre-arrange external supplier

The most important thing to understand is this:

Royal Caribbean does not provide oxygen or medical refills.You must travel with enough supply or arrange rental delivery service to the ship.

This makes advance planning critical.

Types of Oxygen You Can Bring Onboard

Passengers are permitted to bring several oxygen delivery systems. Below is a full explanation of each option.

1. Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

These are the most travel-friendly devices because they do not require storing multiple oxygen cylinders. Many cruise travelers prefer POCs because they are lighter, rechargeable, and FAA-approved for flights.

Popular brands travelers use:

• Inogen G3 / G4 / G5

• SimplyGo or SimplyGo Mini

• OxyGo

• AirSep FreeStyle units

• Zen-O Lite

Royal Caribbean allows POCs onboard without limitations, as long as they are used safely and stored properly.

2. Oxygen Cylinders & Compressed Tanks

Yes, you can bring pre-filled oxygen tanks, but there are rules:

• Must be secured upright at all times

• Must be stored safely inside the cabin

• Tanks cannot block walkways, exits, or bathrooms

• Crew cannot transport them — bring mobility equipment if needed

• You must carry enough tanks for the full cruise or arrange delivery

Passengers often bring both concentrators and cylinders as backup redundancy.

3. Liquid Oxygen Systems

Liquid oxygen may be allowed, but it involves more restrictions due to flammability and handling risk. Guests must contact the cruise line well ahead of sailing — ideally 30+ days before embarkation — to confirm arrangements and storage details.

If you rely heavily on liquid oxygen, planning early is crucial.

4. CPAP, BiPAP & Nebulizers

Even if you don’t need oxygen 24/7, respiratory support devices such as CPAPs or BiPAP machines are widely accepted onboard. Many cruise ships can supply distilled water, but you should carry your own to avoid shortages.

How to Notify Royal Caribbean That You Are Traveling With Oxygen

You must inform Royal Caribbean about your oxygen needs at least 30 days before sailing.

Steps for notification:

1. Book your cruise normally.

2. Contact the Royal Caribbean Access Department.

3. Provide medical documentation including oxygen prescription.

4. Submit type, quantity, and supplier details.

5. Receive final approval and boarding instructions.

Here are the contact details:

Accessibility Phone Line: +1 (866) 592-7225 Email: special_needs@rccl.com

You may be asked for:

• Physician-signed medical statement

• Flow rates and usage frequency

• Name of rental vendor (if applicable)

• Emergency care plan if oxygen fails

Providing thorough information helps ensure your cabin is prepared.

Delivering or Renting Oxygen for the Cruise

Because oxygen refills are not available onboard, many passengers rent oxygen equipment through third-party medical supply companies that coordinate cruise delivery.

Most major cruise departure ports — Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Galveston, Seattle, Vancouver, Southampton, Barcelona — have suppliers familiar with Royal Caribbean procedures.

Common rental options include:

EquipmentCan You Rent for Cruise?

Portable Concentrators Yes

Continuous-flow concentrators Yes

Oxygen Cylinders Yes

Liquid Oxygen (select vendors) Yes but limited

The supplier will usually:

✓ Deliver equipment directly to your cabin on embarkation day✓ Pick up equipment at the end of the sailing✓ Assist with airport delivery if requested

This hassle-free option saves travelers from carrying heavy medical gear through terminals.

Boarding Day Procedure: What to Expect

You will check in normally but may receive priority boarding to enable safe handling of equipment. However, oxygen cylinders are not accepted through standard baggage drop.

Carry-on and handling notes:

• Medical supplies should always be hand-carried

• Do not place oxygen tanks in standard luggage

• Identify yourself to terminal staff for assistance

• Bring a note clearly labeling equipment as medical necessity

If you request pre-approved wheelchair assistance, an attendant can escort you from terminal arrival to cabin.

Using Oxygen Aboard the Ship

Once onboard, you can use your oxygen system anywhere on the ship — stateroom, dining venues, pool deck, lounges, theater. Royal Caribbean ships are disability-accessible and equipped with elevators, wide corridors, and automatic doors.

Usage guidelines:

• Conserve battery during long shore excursions

• Locate electrical outlets in cabin for concentrator charging

• Keep extra nasal cannulas or tubing available

• Secure tanks during ship movement to prevent accidents

Your cabin attendant can help clear extra space or reposition furniture if needed.

What About Shore Excursions?

You may take oxygen equipment ashore as long as it is safe and portable. Concentrators are preferred for mobility-heavy excursions or tender ports.

Important considerations:

• Some ports involve steep ramps or crowded dock areas

• Humid environments may affect battery performance

• You may need backup tanks if power access is uncertain

If you’re joining an excursion booked through Royal Caribbean, inform staff so arrangements can be made if the activity requires oxygen clearance.

Packing Checklist for Traveling With Oxygen

Because oxygen is life-support equipment, redundancy is key. Below is a comprehensive checklist of what to bring:

Essential Medical Items

• Primary oxygen concentrator or tank system

• Backup or secondary device

• Doctor’s oxygen prescription & clearance letter

• Power cords + batteries (multiple if needed)

• Nose cannulas/mask replacements

• Distilled water for humidifier bottle

• Portable cart or wheeled storage bag

• Cleaning wipes, alcohol wipes, filters

Travel & Emergency Supplies

• Surge-protected power strip

• Universal plug adapter for international itineraries

• Plastic zip bags for moisture-free packing

• Printed copy of notification approval from Royal Caribbean

• Emergency contact card with medical history

A redundant setup ensures peace of mind even during long sea days.

Insurance, Medical Support & Emergency Services Onboard

Royal Caribbean ships have fully staffed medical centers with doctors and nurses 24/7. However, ship infirmary teams do not provide oxygen refills or long-term tank supply.

Purchase travel medical insurance that covers:

• Medical evacuation (helicopter/ship-to-shore)

• Emergency oxygen-related complications

• Onboard doctor treatment fees

• Hospitalization in foreign ports

Insurance is especially important for oxygen-dependent passengers, as emergency diversions can be expensive.

Tips for a Smooth, Stress-Free Cruise With Oxygen

• Notify Royal Caribbean early — preferably more than 30 days before sailing

• Keep oxygen documentation in a waterproof folder

• Carry medications + equipment in hand luggage only

• Rent oxygen through a reputable supplier for convenience

• Bring more batteries/tanks than you think you need

• Request an accessible cabin if space or shower support is required

• Avoid extreme humidity, high-heat areas, or smoking zones

• Take port days slowly — pacing helps conserve energy

With proper preparation, you can enjoy every moment of your ocean vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a limit to how much oxygen I can bring?

There is no exact limit, but equipment must safely fit in your cabin.

Can crew carry oxygen tanks for me?

No — crew cannot transport cylinders for liability reasons. Bring carts if needed.

Does Royal Caribbean supply oxygen in medical emergencies?

Emergency oxygen is available short-term, but not for ongoing personal use.

Can I fly with oxygen before reaching the port?

Only FAA-approved POCs are allowed inflight — cylinders are restricted. Plan accordingly.

 Enjoy Your Cruise With Confidence

Yes, Royal Caribbean absolutely allows oxygen tanks and concentrators. With early planning, documentation, and enough supply for your entire trip, you can enjoy a worry-free ocean vacation filled with sunsets, entertainment, gourmet dining, and new destinations.

Oxygen dependency should never hold you back from exploring the world. Thousands of passengers cruise safely each year with respiratory support — and with this guide, you can join them with confidence.