When parents plan a cruise vacation, one of the biggest concerns is how to safely and comfortably include babies and toddlers in onboard activities. Royal Caribbean understands this need better than most cruise lines, which is why it offers the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery—a professionally staffed nursery designed specifically for infants and toddlers aged 6 months to 36 months.
This nursery program is one of the most appreciated features by families, especially those cruising with very young children. It allows parents to enjoy dining, shows, activities, and excursions while knowing their little ones are safe, entertained, and cared for by trained childcare professionals.
In this detailed pillar article, you’ll learn exactly what Royal Babies & Tots Nursery is, how it works, what services it includes, safety measures, costs, booking procedures, schedules, and tips to make the most of this valuable onboard service.
Royal Caribbean has long been a leader in family cruising, and the nursery is a key part of that reputation. Unlike other cruise lines that only allow children three years and older in kids’ clubs, Royal Caribbean goes a step further, ensuring even the youngest travelers are included.
The nursery is not just a babysitting room. It is a structured, secure, nurturing environment where infants and toddlers enjoy:
Age-appropriate toys
Interactive play
Music time
Books and story sessions
Sensory activities
Nap areas
Meals or snacks (brought by parents)
It gives parents flexibility while ensuring young children experience comfort, routine, and fun.
Parents appreciate the nursery because:
They can enjoy adult-only activities.
They receive peace of mind through strict security procedures.
Crew members are experienced and well-trained.
Children follow an organized routine.
Small group sizes ensure attentive care.
It supports both day and evening hours.
Whether you want spa time, a shore excursion, a romantic dinner, or just a quiet morning, the nursery gives you the freedom to enjoy your cruise.
The nursery program is specially created for babies (6–18 months) and toddlers (18–36 months). Everything inside is safe, clean, and tailored to the developmental needs of young children.
Royal Babies & Tots Nursery divides children into two main groups:
This group enjoys:
Soft play toys
Sensory exploration
Gentle music
Story reading
Interactive parent-caregiver play
Activities are calm, soothing, and developmentally appropriate.
Toddlers participate in more interactive experiences like:
Building blocks
Creative crafts
Music and movement
Simple games
Imaginative play
Early learning activities
Toddlers get more structured playtime while still enjoying plenty of fun freedom.
Royal Babies & Tots Nursery includes several dedicated spaces designed for comfort and safety.
A soft, cushioned area filled with:
Sensory toys
Plush blocks
Activity tables
Motor skill toys
Baby-safe climbing items
A quiet space with:
Cribs
Soft mattresses
Calming lighting
White-noise machines
Children nap according to their personal schedule.
Parents can bring:
Formula
Baby food
Snacks
Milk
Bottles
Staff can warm bottles and help supervise feeding.
The nursery offers a rotating schedule of engaging activities that promote early learning.
Storytime
Sing-along sessions
Puppet shows
Color and shape learning
Music movement
Free play
Bubble fun
Soft gym play
Sensory baskets
Every session is structured to support development, curiosity, and social interaction.
Royal Babies & Tots Nursery has clear procedures to ensure safety, organization, and consistency.
The nursery usually operates:
Morning sessions
Afternoon sessions
Evening sessions (Night Nursery)
Hours may vary depending on the ship and itinerary, but the schedule generally covers the entire day so parents can plan around it.
The nursery has limited capacity, so early registration is essential.
Visit the nursery after boarding.
Fill out a short information form.
List allergies, routines, nap needs, and preferences.
Provide emergency contact info.
Parents can book:
Hour-by-hour sessions
Multi-hour blocks
Evening sitting sessions
Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially on sea days.
Royal Caribbean takes nursery safety extremely seriously. Parents can rest easy knowing their children are with experts.
All nursery caregivers are trained in:
Early childhood education
Pediatric first aid
CPR
Safety procedures
Infant and toddler care
Emergency protocols
All staff undergo background checks and professional training.
Secure check-in/out system
Only registered adults can pick up children
Password verification
Strict hygiene protocols
Sanitized toys and surfaces
Controlled access to the nursery
Children are never left unsupervised.
Since babies and toddlers have different needs, the nursery provides flexible care routines.
Parents can provide:
Formula
Bottles
Baby food
Snacks
Staff warm bottles and feed babies based on parent instructions.
Parents must supply:
Diapers
Baby wipes
Cream (if needed)
Caregivers change diapers as needed and maintain strict cleanliness.
While Adventure Ocean (ages 3–11) is free, the nursery does have an hourly fee.
A small per-hour rate for daytime
A slightly higher rate for nighttime sessions
Prices vary by ship and region but remain affordable for cruise standards.
Professional childcare
Small group sizes
Dedicated baby-safe environment
Flexibility day and night
Peace of mind for parents
It’s one of the most valuable family services onboard.
The nursery is designed with parent comfort and child happiness in mind.
Parents can drop children off anytime during operational hours if there is space available.
Parents receive a special onboard phone (or app-based alert system on certain ships) in case staff need to contact them.
Caregivers follow:
Nap routines
Feeding times
Comfort habits
Special instructions
This helps children feel at home.
Many parents wonder how the nursery differs from the older kids’ programs.
Nursery is for ages 6–36 months
Adventure Ocean begins at age 3
Nursery charges hourly; Adventure Ocean is free
Nursery includes diapering, feeding, and naps
Nursery has smaller staff-to-child ratios
Play is softer, calmer, and developmentally targeted
Both programs deliver exceptional care, but they’re uniquely tailored.
Parents can maximize the experience by preparing in advance.
Pack:
Favorite toy
Diapers
Wipes
Snacks
Pacifiers
Bottle
Comfort blanket
Availability can fill up fast, especially on sea days.
This is perfect if you want:
Date night
Main dining room dinner
A show
Late-night relaxation
A short session on Day 1 helps children warm up and feel comfortable.
Royal Caribbean’s dedication to family cruising is unmatched, and the nursery is a major reason why.
Stress-free vacation
More time for relaxation
Ability to enjoy adult activities
Extra flexibility for excursions
Peace of mind with safe childcare
Safe environment
Age-appropriate learning
Trained caregivers
Social development
Comfort and routine
It turns a regular cruise into a fully enjoyable family vacation—without limits.
If you’re cruising with a baby or toddler, the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery is one of the greatest advantages Royal Caribbean offers. It’s professional, safe, nurturing, and designed to make both parents and children happy.
The nursery lets little ones thrive and gives parents the freedom to enjoy their vacation—a win for the entire family.
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