Cruising with a baby is becoming increasingly popular as families look for stress-free vacation options that combine comfort, convenience, and all-inclusive fun. Royal Caribbean, one of the world’s largest and most family-friendly cruise lines, has responded to this trend by offering numerous amenities and services tailored for parents traveling with young children. Naturally, one of the most common questions families ask before booking is: Does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?

The straightforward answer is yes—Royal Caribbean does charge for infants, but the charges and rules depend on age, itinerary, and cabin occupancy. To fully understand the costs, minimum age requirements, available services, and whether cruising with an infant is worthwhile, it’s important to break down the details. This article provides an in-depth explanation of Royal Caribbean’s infant fares, onboard policies, and tips for families planning their first voyage with a baby.

Infant Fares and Charges on Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean considers any child under 2 years old to be an infant. Though infants cannot enjoy all the same onboard activities as older children, they still count as passengers for safety, occupancy, and provisioning reasons. As a result, the cruise line does apply fares for babies, although sometimes these are reduced compared to standard child fares.

General Pricing Policy for Infants

Royal Caribbean does not offer free cruising for infants, regardless of age. Infants pay a fare based on a combination of factors:

• Cruise itinerary

• Time of year

• Cabin type

• Taxes and port fees

• Potential third- or fourth-guest discounts

In many cases, infants are charged as third or fourth passengers, which means their fare is lower than that of the first two adults in the cabin. However, they are always charged mandatory taxes, fees, and port expenses, which can be a significant portion of the overall cost.

Why Infants Are Charged a Fare

Although some guests expect babies to be free due to their minimal use of facilities, cruise lines must account for all passengers for several reasons:

• International maritime safety laws require passenger capacity limits

• Crew-to-passenger ratio must remain consistent

• Lifeboat space and emergency protocols apply to infants

• Food provisioning, supplies, and medical resources include infant needs

Therefore, even when the monetary cost appears small, the logistical requirements generate a necessary fare structure.

Age Requirements for Sailing

Royal Caribbean enforces minimum age rules depending on the itinerary type. These rules impact whether a fare will be applied and whether an infant is even eligible to sail.

Minimum Age for Most Cruises

For most voyages, infants must be at least 6 months old on the day of sailing. This age requirement is common across the cruise industry and is designed for passenger safety.

Minimum Age for Longer or Exotic Itineraries

For certain voyages—including transatlantic, transpacific, South America, and itineraries with three or more consecutive sea days—the minimum age increases to 12 months.

This policy ensures that infants are not placed in situations where medical facilities are far from land for several days.

Additional Infant-Related Costs and Services

Cruising with an infant involves more than just the fare. Royal Caribbean provides a variety of services for families, some complimentary and others available at an additional cost. Understanding these offerings helps families better prepare and budget for their vacation.

Onboard Nursery Services and Fees

Royal Caribbean is known for being one of the few major cruise lines offering nurseries for babies as young as six months old. These nurseries provide two types of care:

Daytime Nursery Care

This service allows parents to drop off their babies for supervised playtime in a safe, stimulating environment. Trained staff monitor the infants, engage them in activities, and maintain a calm atmosphere.

Evening Nursery Care

Parents seeking adult-only time during dinner or shows may use the nighttime baby-sitting services.

Both services typically cost around $6–$8 per hour, depending on the ship and itinerary. Charges are applied directly to the stateroom account.

In-Cabin Baby-Sitting (Subject to Availability)

Some Royal Caribbean ships offer in-room baby-sitting, though this option is not guaranteed and varies based on crew availability. The service normally comes at a higher rate than nursery care and must be booked after boarding.

Baby Supplies and Travel Light Program

Royal Caribbean’s “Babies 2 Go” program allows parents to pre-order essential supplies like diapers, wipes, and baby food, which are delivered directly to the stateroom. While convenient, these items often cost more onboard than on land.

Complimentary Infant Amenities

Despite certain charges, Royal Caribbean provides numerous complimentary services for infants, including:

• Pack ’n Plays upon request

• High chairs in dining venues

• Pureed baby food (available in the main dining room upon request)

• Family-oriented splash zones on select ships

While infants cannot use pools on most cruise ships due to health and safety regulations, Royal Caribbean offers “Baby Splash Zones” on some vessels, specifically designed for diapered children.

Accommodation and Dining Considerations for Infants

Choosing the right stateroom and planning meals properly can make cruising with an infant far more comfortable. Royal Caribbean provides flexible options for families, but some considerations are essential when booking.

Cabin Types Suitable for Families with Infants

While any cabin can technically accommodate an infant, some are more comfortable than others. Family-friendly cabin choices include:

Standard Interior or Oceanview Rooms

These rooms can comfortably fit a Pack ’n Play and are sufficient for shorter cruises.

Balcony Cabins

Balconies offer fresh air, natural light, and a separate area for parents to relax while infants nap.

Family Suites

For longer voyages, having separate sleeping spaces, additional bathrooms, and extra room for baby supplies greatly enhances the experience.

Dining Options with Infants

Royal Caribbean makes dining with a baby simple and relaxed. Families can choose from:

Main Dining Room

High chairs are available, and staff can bring pureed food or help customize meals.

Windjammer Buffet

Buffets offer flexible timing and variety—helpful for unpredictable infant schedules.

Room Service

Room service allows parents to eat comfortably in the cabin while the baby sleeps. Continental breakfast is complimentary, while other options may carry a service charge.

Tips for Cruising with an Infant on Royal Caribbean

Bringing a baby on a cruise may seem challenging, but with the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding family vacations. These trusted tips help ensure smooth sailing.

Planning and Booking the Cruise

Careful planning contributes significantly to a hassle-free experience.

Choose a Shorter Itinerary for the First Cruise

Many families prefer a 3–5 night cruise for the first trip to test how their baby adapts to the environment.

Book a Ship with a Nursery

Not all Royal Caribbean ships include nurseries. Oasis-class and Quantum-class ships do, making them ideal for families.

Check the Ship’s Splash Zone Availability

If using a baby splash zone is important, verify whether the chosen ship has one.

Packing for the Cruise

Cruise ships may not always stock the same brands of baby items you use at home. Important items to pack include:

Essentials Checklist

• Diapers and wipes

• Baby formula or preferred baby food

• Extra baby clothes

• Sunscreen suitable for infants

• Lightweight stroller

• Baby carrier for shore excursions

Planning ahead minimizes unnecessary onboard purchases.

Keeping the Infant Comfortable Onboard

Ensuring comfort helps infants adjust to the cruise environment.

Managing Sleep and Naps

The combination of fresh sea air and gentle rocking can help infants sleep well, but sticking to a familiar routine helps maintain consistency.

Choosing Quiet Spaces

Libraries, lounges, or shaded deck areas provide peaceful environments away from crowds.

Benefits of Cruising with an Infant

Traveling with a baby may seem overwhelming, but many families find cruising offers advantages that traditional vacations do not.

Stress-Free Travel Between Destinations

Cruising eliminates constant packing and unpacking, making it easier for parents to focus on their child.

Family-Friendly Staff and Amenities

Royal Caribbean crew members are trained to assist families, providing warmth, patience, and professionalism.

Entertainment for All Ages

Parents can enjoy shows, dining, and relaxation while nurseries care for infants safely.

Value for Money

Even with infant charges, cruises often offer better value than land vacations due to included meals, entertainment, and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Is Cruising with an Infant Worth It?

Although Royal Caribbean does charge for infants, the cost is usually reasonable, especially considering the amenities provided. Babies typically pay a lower fare than adults, and the comfort, convenience, and family-friendly services onboard often outweigh the fees. With nurseries, splash zones, baby-friendly dining, and thoughtful amenities, Royal Caribbean remains one of the best cruise lines for families with infants.

Parents who plan carefully, select the right ship, and use available onboard services can enjoy a memorable and stress-free vacation. For many families, the experience of cruising with a baby turns out not only feasible but genuinely enjoyable—creating memories to treasure long after the voyage ends.

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