My husband and I love to go on cruises for quick, easy getaways. This was our 5th one so far. We went for a 4 day Royal Caribbean cruise from Galveston, Texas.
Our cruise itinerary:
- Day 1- boarding
- Day 2- day at sea
- Day 3- Cozumel, Mexico.
- Day 4- day at sea
- Day 5- disembarkment day
Tips & Tricks for the Best Cruise Experience
Day 1
The day was nice, although a bit windy and chilly. Check in was so easy! Royal Caribbean has a great app that allows you to complete all of your boarding information ahead of time. You can upload your travel documents, answer your pre screening questions, and see your travel itinerary. We arrived at the port and parked, then we went through the fastest lines with the friendliest employees! We checked our luggage- although you are able to take it on yourself. The only downfall to that is that if your room isn’t ready yet, you’ll have to keep it with you everywhere you go.
After we got on board, we picked up our cups that we got with our drink packages and went up to the pool desk to hangout until the boat’s departure. We went to our room to get ready for dinner and were happy to see that our luggage had arrived!
We got ready for dinner, which was a casual night, and it was so good! After dinner we went to the variety show put on by the ship, which went over some activities that would be going on throughout our trip, as well as a short comedy show. After that, went to bed- we were pretty tired!
Day 2
Our day at sea! We got up pretty late that day and went to the windjammer for lunch, then we hung out by the pool for a few hours. That evening was the Captain’s Dinner, which is the more formal night. Once again, the food was delicious.
Day 3
We got up and had breakfast in the dining room. It was a part day in Cozumel, and we did the ATV and beach relaxation excursion. We needed our id’s and closed toe shoes. While it was fun, it wasn’t quite what we were expecting. It was really rocky terrain, but if you’re expecting jungle trees and animals, this probably isn’t the best option. We still had a lot of fun, though!! After about an hour or so on the four wheelers, we were guided back to the meeting spot and bussed to a local beach club. There was food for purchase, with beach access and a pool. We spent another 2 hours there, then we were bussed back to port and got back on the ship. That evening was a tropical themed dinner. The escargot was DELICIOUS and I could have had at least 3 orders 😋.
Day 4
Another day at sea, making our way back to Texas. We got up and ate breakfast at the windjammer, then headed out to the pool deck. That nights theme was Italian, and I ordered the chicken Parmesan. After dinner we went to the farewell show, which had dancers, and another comedy act. We went back to our room and packed up, and we opted to carry our own luggage off the ship, although there is an option for them to take it for you and leave it in a designated location after you get off the ship.
Day 5
Getting off the ship was a little chaotic and disorganized. I’m not sure why, because we have never ran into that problem before. Everyone was trying to get off at the same time even though there were scheduled groups and times that you have to pick ahead of time. The elevators were cutting the lines, and people were lined up and down the steps. My advice would be to pack up and be ready early, and wait in the designated lounge until your group is called, rather than waiting and having to be in the long lines.
Overall it was a nice little getaway, and we look forward to our next cruise!
Cruise Packing Tips
- Carry on for embarkment day– have a bathing suit, sunscreen, and a change of clothes while you’re waiting for your luggage to be delivered to your room!
- Ziplock bags– so many uses! hold small objects, I keep books or electronic devices in it inside of my beach bag to ensure they don’t get wet, for swimsuits if needed, etc.
- Sea sick bands– self explanatory. These are the ones we have!
- Bring insulated cup to keep drinks cold by the pool!
- Don’t forget Advil!! There is a small shop on board, but you’re going to pay way more. If you end up with any aches or pains, you’ll be glad you have your own on hand.
- Bring small blanket– it can be hard to get the temperature just right in the cabin, plus I personally find the sheets a little tough. Having a small blanket can serve as a barrier, can be used for a quick after sun nap, or just keep you warmer at night!
- BYOS (bring your own reuseable straws)– some ships have paper straws, and they would get soft and stop working before I could finish my drink. Here is a great option with a little bag to store them!
Helpful Cruise Information
- I get a lot of questions about the cost, but it truly depends on the cruise line, the port you are leaving from, length, destinations, people going, etc. You also need to plan to spend money on your drink package, excursions you may do, and other extras like on board wifi, dining at the specialty restaurants, gambling, etc. I will say that we typically spend less on cruises than on other vacations.
- Plan ahead. Research the ports of call and itinerary, book excursions and specialty dining reservations in advance, and make sure you have all of your documents in order.
- Buy excursions in advance- they usually run discounts before the trip, and they typically sell out pretty quickly!
- There are several dining options on Royal Caribbean ships. The Windjammer serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner- all buffet style. The main dining rooms serve a sit down, menu style meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with different options each evening depending on the theme of the night. There are also several specialty restaurants on board that are not complementary, but are great options if you’re looking to switch things up one day!
- My Time Dining- the traditional times to dine in the main dining rooms are 5:30 or 8:00pm. If you chose My Time Dining, you can go any time between 6-9. I would still strongly recommend making reservations due to higher wait times, but this allows you to dine different times each evening and work around your daily schedule.
- Pack light. Royal Caribbean has weight restrictions on luggage, so make sure to pack items that are lightweight, versatile, and easy to store. Be sure to bring a pair of closed toe shoes in case you want to check out the gym or book an excursion that requires them!
- Dress for the occasion. Certain nights on the ship have a dress code, so make sure to bring along more formal attire as well as casual clothes and swimwear.
- Take advantage of onboard activities. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of activities and entertainment, from shows and poolside games to rock climbing, zip lining, waterslides, and more.
- Explore the ports of call. Don’t forget to get off the ship and experience the beautiful destinations and the wonderful locals!
- Take a ton of pictures and videos! These memories will last a life time, and it will be fun to share with friends and family, as well as look back on later.
Adventure of The Seas Ship Details
The Adventure of the Seas is a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship. Some of the fun on board features include a rock-climbing wall, ice skating, basketball court, mini-golf course, a spa, casino, and multiple pools and whirlpools. The ship also offers many dining options, including specialty restaurants as well as more casual options.
So much great info!