Planning a cruise vacation with your baby can feel overwhelming. Between understanding cabin categories, dining rules, onboard activities, and child-care options, parents often get stuck on one big question:
Does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?
The surprising truth is that many new parents believe infants cruise free. Others assume reduced fares apply. But things change every year, and misunderstanding the policy can cost you hundreds of dollars before you even step onboard.
This guide reveals everything you must know about Royal Caribbean infant pricing, hidden fees, age rules, nursery charges, dining expectations, required documents, and expert money-saving tips that families rarely share.
If you want to avoid last-minute surprises, prevent denied boarding, save money, and enjoy a smooth family cruise, read this entire pillar article until the end.
Cruising with a baby under two years old sounds simple, but cruise lines follow strict rules for capacity, safety, and staffing. Infants count toward a ship’s maximum occupancy. They require special emergency equipment, age-specific medical considerations, and even dedicated muster procedures. This is why no mainstream cruise line allows babies to sail for free.
Royal Caribbean is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines in the world. But when it comes to infant pricing, parents often get confused. Some expect freebies, others expect discounts, but the real policy works differently.
To fully understand it, you need clarity on:
How much Royal Caribbean charges for infants
What the cost covers
Why infants are counted as full passengers
Minimum age requirements
Nursery service charges
Dining rules for infants
Shore excursion policies
Tips to save money
What to pack
How to avoid mistakes first-time cruise parents make
This complete guide breaks down each detail in a simple, no-confusion format so you can book with confidence.
Yes.Royal Caribbean does charge for infants, and they are not free.
Infants are charged the same third and fourth passenger rate as children and adults. This means if your cabin has two paying adults, the baby is usually charged as the third guest.
There is no discounted infant fare.There is no free infant fare.There is no reduced percentage for babies under two.
Even though babies do not use most onboard activities, they still count toward ship occupancy, lifeboat assignments, and safety requirements. This is the primary reason infants are charged a full third-guest rate.
Understanding the “why” helps parents accept the policy and plan better.
1. Safety regulations
Cruise ships must follow international maritime rules. Every infant counts as a passenger and requires:
Emergency headcount
Lifeboat space
Age-specific flotation devices
Special medical risk considerations
2. Cabin occupancy rules
Most cabins allow either two, three, or four guests. Infants count toward that number, no exceptions.
3. Staffing and capacity limits
Royal Caribbean maintains a specific crew-to-passenger ratio. Every person onboard, regardless of age, impacts this calculation.
4. Cost of resources
Even though babies may not join activities, they still use:
Fresh water
Laundry services
Medical facilities
Housekeeping
Safety equipment
All of this adds to operational cost.
The exact cost varies depending on:
Destination
Season
Ship class
Cabin category
Promotions
But on average:
For example:If the third guest fare is lower than the adult fare, the infant pays that lower rate. But if the sailing is nearly full, the third guest fare may be high.
Additionally, taxes, port fees, and gratuities apply to infants just like any other guest.
Expect these charges:
Base cruise fare
Port taxes
Government fees
Gratuities (for babies older than 1 year if they receive dining services)
This means even a baby under two years old may cost a few hundred dollars depending on itinerary and season.
Minimum Age to Sail on Royal Caribbean
Before understanding pricing fully, you must know the minimum allowed infant age for cruising.
Minimum age rules:
6 months old for most itineraries
12 months old for transatlantic, transpacific, relocations, and cruises with three or more consecutive sea days
This rule is non-negotiable.
If your baby is even one day younger than the rule specifies, you will be denied boarding with no refund.
This single mistake causes families thousands of dollars in losses each year.
Even though infants are charged a fare, Royal Caribbean does provide complimentary amenities that reduce your stress.
Cribs (Pack ’n Play)
Highchairs in dining rooms
Bottle warmers (on some ships)
Purified water for formula
Baby food (limited availability on some ships)
You must request these items early because supplies are limited.
The nursery is one of the most helpful features for parents but comes at an extra cost.
Daytime care: Lower hourly rate
Evening care: Slightly higher hourly rate
Reservations required
The nursery provides:
Age-appropriate toys
Trained caregivers
Sleep area
Feeding support
Playtime activities
Even though this is an added charge, it gives parents a chance to enjoy shows, specialty dining, or spa treatments without worry.
Infants can dine in any complimentary restaurant. They do not require a dining package.
Pureed baby food availability varies
You may bring sealed baby food jars onboard
Highchairs are available
Servers can warm bottles
Infants do not need a beverage package
Parents should bring formula or preferred baby foods, especially if your baby has dietary sensitivities.
This is where many parents get confused.
Babies under one year usually do not receive gratuities
Children older than one year who use dining services are charged the standard daily gratuity rate
Always check this at the time of booking.
It depends on the excursion.
Infants are usually free if they sit on a parent’s lap
If an excursion requires a seat or a ticket, the child will be charged
Some excursions have strict minimum ages and infants are not allowed at all
For safety, avoid excursions with:
Fast boats
Snorkeling
Long bus rides
Crowded markets
Rough terrain
Look for stroller-friendly excursions or short walking tours.
Yes. In fact, you should bring everything your baby needs.
What you can bring:
Diapers
Wipes
Formula
Baby food jars
Baby snacks
Bottles
Pacifiers
Strollers
Baby carriers
Medication
Infant sunscreen
What Royal Caribbean does not sell onboard:
Diapers
Formula
Baby wipes
You must pack enough for the entire cruise.
Every dollar counts when traveling with a family. Use these expert tips to reduce costs.
1. Book Early
Third-guest rates increase as the ship fills. Booking early locks in the lowest fare.
2. Avoid holiday seasons
Infant fares spike during:
Christmas
New Year
Spring break
Summer vacation
Choose off-peak months.
3. Book a cabin that fits your family
Interior and oceanview cabins offer the lowest third-guest rates.
4. Skip specialty dining for infants
Babies cannot benefit from it. Complimentary dining is enough.
5. Bring your own baby essentials
To avoid expensive last-minute purchases at port.
6. Use the nursery strategically
Instead of long hours, book short slots during:
Dinner
Shows
Gym time
7. Look for Kids Sail Free promotions
Even though infants usually do not qualify, sometimes promotions reduce the third-guest fare for select sailings.
8. Choose itineraries with fewer sea days
Infants older than six months can travel, but certain itineraries require them to be one year old. Avoiding long sea-day itineraries reduces fare restrictions and opens more budget-friendly options.
Use this complete step-by-step process to eliminate stress and avoid costly mistakes.
Step 1: Confirm your baby is old enough
6 months minimum for most cruises
12 months minimum for long sea-day itineraries
Step 2: Choose the right cabin
Best cabin choices for families with infants:
Oceanview
Balcony
Spacious interior
Junior Suite (extra storage)
Ensure the cabin fits the Pack ’n Play.
Step 3: Book early to lock the lowest infant fare
The third-guest rate is cheapest when:
A ship is just released
In off-season
Before school holidays
Step 4: Request baby amenities immediately after booking
Call the cruise line or your travel agent and request:
Crib
Highchairs
Baby bath seat (if available)
Bottle warmers (depending on ship)
Step 5: Prepare documentation
Infants need:
Passport
Birth certificate
Travel authorization (if one parent is absent)
Make sure the passport is valid for at least six months.
Step 6: Pack smart and pack enough
Checklist includes:
Diapers for the whole trip
Formula
Bottles
Baby snacks
Medicines
Stroller
Baby carrier
Sunscreen
Swim diapers
Step 7: Register for the nursery as soon as you board
Slots fill fast. The earlier you book:
The more flexible hours you’ll get
The lower your chances of missing night events
Step 8: Choose infant-friendly activities
While infants cannot join most adventure activities, they can enjoy:
Splash areas (depending on age)
Family photo sessions
Quiet lounges
Family karaoke
The open deck breeze
Soft play areas
Step 9: Plan meals efficiently
Use:
Main dining room for relaxed meals
Windjammer for quick meals
Stateroom breakfast for convenience
Step 10: Stick to your baby’s schedule
Cruises are busy, but an overtired baby can ruin your day. Maintain:
Nap times
Feeding routines
Calm spaces for breaks
Despite the cost, cruising with a baby has huge advantages.
1. Stress-free travel to multiple destinations
No packing and unpacking between destinations.
2. Access to medical facilities
Useful if your baby feels unwell.
3. Nursery services available
Allows parents personal time.
4. Calm environment and soothing ship motion
Many babies sleep better at sea.
5. Family-friendly spaces
Most ships are designed with families in mind.
6. Enriching sensory experience
New sights, sounds, and environments are great for infant development.
7. Great value for the overall vacation
Even with infant charges, it’s often cheaper than land vacations.
So, does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?Yes, infants are charged the third-guest rate, plus taxes and port fees. Babies are not free, and no separate infant discount exists. The charge is mainly due to maritime safety regulations and occupancy rules.
While the cost may surprise some parents, Royal Caribbean still offers exceptional value for families. With proper planning, early booking, and smart packing, cruising with a baby can be one of the easiest and most enjoyable vacations you’ll take.
Royal Caribbean is truly one of the best cruise lines for families with young children, and understanding infant charges helps you plan the perfect stress-free voyage.
1. Does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?
Yes. Infants pay the standard third or fourth guest rate plus taxes and port fees.
2. Do infants cruise free on Royal Caribbean?
No. There are no free infant fares.
3. Are infants allowed in swimming pools?
Infants wearing diapers cannot enter regular pools. Some ships have designated splash zones for diapered infants.
4. What is the minimum age for infants to cruise?
Six months for most voyages, one year for long sea-day itineraries.
5. Do infants need a passport?
A passport is strongly recommended for all international cruises.
6. Does Royal Caribbean provide cribs?
Yes, Pack ’n Plays are available free of charge but must be requested early.
7. Are baby food and formula available onboard?
Small quantities may be available, but parents should bring their own.
8. Are infants charged gratuities?
Infants under one year typically do not incur gratuities.
9. Do infants pay for shore excursions?
Usually no, unless the excursion requires a separate seat or has age restrictions.
10. Is the nursery included in the infant fare?
No. The nursery charges an hourly rate and must be reserved.
11. Can I bring my baby stroller onboard?
Yes. Lightweight strollers are highly recommended.
12. Do infants count toward cabin occupancy?
Yes. Infants count as passengers regardless of age.
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