Does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?

Planning a cruise with a baby can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to pricing. One of the most common questions parents ask is: Does Royal Caribbean charge for infants?

The short answer: Yes, Royal Caribbean typically charges infants the same base cruise fare as other guests, regardless of age. However, taxes, gratuities, and certain onboard services may vary.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down exactly what you can expect to pay, what infants receive onboard, health and safety considerations, and smart strategies to reduce costs—so you can book confidently.

Does Royal Caribbean Charge for Infants?

Royal Caribbean International does not offer free cruises for infants in most cases. Babies—defined as children under 2 years old—are generally charged:

• A base cruise fare

• Port fees and government taxes

• Gratuities (automatic service charges)

Why Are Infants Charged?

Cruise pricing is based on occupancy, not age. Even though infants don’t require a separate bed or eat from the buffet extensively, they:

• Count toward lifeboat capacity

• Are included in ship manifest documentation

• Receive onboard services and amenities

• Require compliance with maritime safety regulations

Cruise ships operate under international maritime laws that require accurate passenger counts for safety compliance.

Royal Caribbean Infant Policy: Official Guidelines

According to Royal Caribbean’s publicly available policies, infants must meet minimum age requirements:

Minimum Age Rules

• 6 months old on most sailings

• 12 months old for transatlantic, transpacific, Hawaii, and certain South America cruises

These rules are designed for health and safety reasons, especially given the limited pediatric medical facilities onboard.

Health & Safety Context

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that infants are more vulnerable to:

• Norovirus outbreaks

• Respiratory infections

• Dehydration

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov)

Cruise lines implement age restrictions to mitigate risk, particularly on longer voyages where medical evacuation may be difficult.

How Much Does Royal Caribbean Charge for Infants?

Pricing depends on:

• Itinerary

• Season

• Cabin type

• Promotion availability

Typical Cost Breakdown

Cost CategoryDoes Infant Pay?Notes

Base Cruise FareYesOften reduced during promotions

Port Taxes & FeesYesRequired by government authorities

GratuitiesUsually YesCharged per person, per day

Specialty DiningOptionalPay only if used

Shore ExcursionsOptionalAge restrictions may apply

Drink PackagesNoInfants don’t require

Example Scenario

If a 7-night Caribbean cruise costs:

• $800 per adult

• $600 for a third guest

An infant may be charged approximately $400–$600, depending on promotions and cabin capacity.

What Do Infants Receive Onboard?

Even though infants pay a fare, families receive valuable accommodations.

Complimentary Amenities

Royal Caribbean offers:

• Pack ’n Plays (upon request)

• High chairs in dining areas

• Baby food (limited supply)

• Infant splash zones (select ships)

• Family-friendly cabins

Royal Babies & Tots Nursery

Select ships offer nursery services for children 6–36 months old for an hourly fee.

Services include:

• Supervised playtime

• Age-appropriate toys

• Trained staff

Hourly fees vary by sailing.

Comparing Royal Caribbean to Other Cruise Lines

Here’s how Royal Caribbean compares to major competitors:

Cruise LineInfant Fare PolicyMinimum Age

Royal Caribbean InternationalCharged6–12 months

Carnival Cruise LineCharged6–12 months

Disney Cruise LineCharged6 months

Norwegian Cruise LineCharged6 months

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on any major cruise line consistently offering completely free fares for infants outside of limited-time promotions.

Health Considerations for Cruising With an Infant

Cruising with a baby involves more than pricing—it requires medical preparedness.

Pediatric Health Recommendations

According to the World Health Organization (WHO.int):

Infants under 12 months are more susceptible to:

• Gastrointestinal illness

• Heat exposure complications

• Dehydration

Additionally, the National Institutes of Health (NIH.gov) emphasizes that infants have immature immune systems, increasing vulnerability in crowded environments.

Before You Cruise: Medical Checklist

1. Consult your pediatrician 4–6 weeks before sailing

2. Confirm vaccination schedule

3. Bring infant medications

4. Pack oral rehydration solution

5. Carry a copy of medical records

Step-by-Step: Booking a Royal Caribbean Cruise With an Infant

Step 1: Verify Age Eligibility

Check sailing requirements on Royal Caribbean’s official website.

Step 2: Add Infant as a Guest

Infants must be listed on the reservation—even newborns.

Step 3: Confirm Cabin Capacity

Some cabins cannot legally accommodate four guests, including an infant.

Step 4: Request Baby Equipment Early

Call customer service to reserve:

• Cribs

• Bottle warmers (limited)

• Diaper disposal units

Step 5: Review Travel Documentation

Infants require:

• Passport (for most international cruises)

• Birth certificate (closed-loop U.S. cruises)

Government travel requirements can be confirmed via official portals such as gov.uk or travel.state.gov.

Hidden Costs Parents Often Overlook

While infant fares are predictable, additional costs may arise:

• Specialty coffee shops (for parents)

• Wi-Fi packages

• Babysitting services

• Travel insurance

Should You Buy Travel Insurance?

According to consumer guidance published by Consumer Reports, families traveling with young children may benefit from travel insurance covering:

• Medical emergencies

• Trip interruption

• Evacuation coverage

Given infants’ higher risk of illness, insurance is often worth considering.

Money-Saving Tips for Cruising With an Infant

1. Book During “Kids Sail Free” Promotions

Watch seasonal deals carefully.

2. Choose Off-Peak Travel

September and early December sailings often cost less.

3. Bring Your Own Baby Supplies

Diapers and formula onboard are expensive and limited.

4. Use Onboard Dining Instead of Specialty Restaurants

Main dining rooms accommodate infants at no extra cost.

5. Monitor Price Drops

Royal Caribbean sometimes adjusts fares before final payment deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Does Royal Caribbean let babies cruise for free?

Generally no. Infants are typically charged a fare unless a special promotion applies.

2. Do infants pay port taxes and fees?

Yes. These are government-mandated charges applied per passenger.

3. Are gratuities charged for infants?

Yes, automatic gratuities are usually added, though you may adjust them at Guest Services.

4. Is there a minimum age for babies on Royal Caribbean?

Yes—6 months for most sailings and 12 months for longer itineraries.

5. Does Royal Caribbean provide cribs?

Yes, Pack ’n Plays are available upon request.

6. Are diapers and formula available onboard?

Limited quantities may be available, but parents should bring their own supplies.

7. Is onboard childcare included?

No. Nursery services are available for an hourly fee.

8. Can infants go in pools?

Most cruise ship pools prohibit diapered children. Select ships offer splash zones.

9. Do infants need passports?

Often yes, depending on itinerary. Check government travel websites for current requirements.

10. Is cruising safe for infants?

Cruising can be safe when following pediatric guidance and hygiene precautions. Consult your child’s doctor before travel.