How do I book a Royal Caribbean repositioning cruise?

Booking a Royal Caribbean repositioning cruise can be one of the smartest ways to enjoy a luxury cruise vacation at a significantly lower price. But these sailings are different from traditional itineraries, and knowing how to book them strategically can save you hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:

• What repositioning cruises are

• When and where Royal Caribbean offers them

• Step-by-step instructions for booking

• Insider tips for maximizing value

• Health, travel, and insurance considerations

• Answers to the most common questions

This guide is built on publicly available information from Royal Caribbean’s official website, government travel advisories like Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UK Government travel guidance, and consumer travel best practices from Consumer Reports and Harvard Business Review.

What Is a Royal Caribbean Repositioning Cruise?

A repositioning cruise occurs when a cruise line moves a ship from one region to another for seasonal deployment.

For example:

• Caribbean → Europe (spring)

• Europe → Caribbean (fall)

• Alaska → Australia

• West Coast → Asia

Instead of sailing empty, Royal Caribbean sells these voyages to passengers — often at reduced per-day rates.

Unlike typical round-trip cruises, repositioning cruises are usually:

• One-way

• Longer (10–20+ days)

• Port-light (more sea days)

• Cross-continental (e.g., transatlantic or transpacific)

Royal Caribbean operates these cruises across its fleet, including ships like:

• Royal Caribbean International

• Caribbean

• Mediterranean Sea

• Alaska

Why Book a Repositioning Cruise?

1. Exceptional Value Per Night

Because repositioning cruises focus on ship movement rather than port density, cruise lines discount fares to fill cabins.

Example (typical pricing patterns):

Cruise TypeAvg LengthPortsPrice Per Day

Caribbean 7-night7 days4–5$120–$180

Repositioning 14-night14 days3–5$60–$120

Longer itineraries + fewer ports = lower operational costs, passed on to travelers.

According to industry analyses frequently cited by travel publications, repositioning cruises often offer the lowest per-diem pricing of any sailing category.

2. Unique Itineraries

You may cross the Atlantic Ocean, transit the Panama Canal, or visit rarely scheduled ports.

Some repositioning cruises include:

• Canary Islands

• Azores

• Bermuda

• Pacific island stops

These routes are often unavailable during regular seasonal schedules.

3. Fewer Crowds, Relaxed Atmosphere

Repositioning cruises tend to attract experienced cruisers and retirees. The vibe is typically:

• Less hectic

• More enrichment-focused

• Fewer children (due to school schedules)

Step-by-Step: How to Book a Royal Caribbean Repositioning Cruise

Step 1: Identify Repositioning Seasons

Royal Caribbean typically repositions ships:

• March–May (Spring Europe sailings)

• September–November (Return to Caribbean)

• Late summer (Alaska repositioning)

Visit the official website of Royal Caribbean International and filter by:

• “Transatlantic”

• “Transpacific”

• “Panama Canal”

• “Repositioning”

You can also sort by duration (10+ nights).

Step 2: Compare One-Way Flight Costs

Because repositioning cruises are one-way, airfare is crucial.

Check:

• Multi-city flights

• Open-jaw tickets

• Budget carriers

According to Consumer Reports, travelers can reduce airfare by 15–25% using flexible date searches and mid-week departures.

Pro Tip: Sometimes airfare savings offset cruise discounts — always compare total trip cost.

Step 3: Check Travel Documentation Requirements

For international sailings:

• Passport validity (often 6 months required)

• Visas (country-specific)

• Vaccination or health requirements

Refer to:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC cruise guidance)

• UK Government foreign travel advice

If sailing transatlantic, verify entry requirements for European Union countries.

Step 4: Compare Cabin Categories Strategically

Repositioning cruises have many sea days — meaning your cabin matters more.

Cabin Comparison

Cabin TypeBest ForWorth It on Repositioning?

InteriorBudget travelersYes (if rarely in room)

Ocean ViewNatural light loversGood compromise

BalconySea day relaxationHighly recommended

SuiteLuxury & perksExcellent for long voyages

On long sea crossings, balconies offer substantial value due to scenic ocean views.

Step 5: Monitor Promotions and Wave Season

January–March (known as “Wave Season”) often features:

• Free gratuities

• Onboard credit

• Beverage packages

Royal Caribbean promotions vary. Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on exact discount patterns year to year, but Wave Season historically provides strong booking incentives.

Step 6: Consider Travel Insurance (Strongly Recommended)

Repositioning cruises involve:

• International travel

• One-way flights

• Weather variability

The CDC notes that cruise travelers should ensure appropriate travel insurance coverage.

Look for policies covering:

• Trip interruption

• Medical evacuation

• Missed connection

• International health coverage

Consult insurers regulated by your national authority (e.g., UK Financial Conduct Authority or U.S. state insurance regulators).

Health and Safety Considerations

Cruise travel involves public health considerations.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Stay up-to-date on routine vaccines

• Practice hand hygiene

• Report illness immediately onboard

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes respiratory hygiene and safe international travel practices.

Long sea days also mean:

• Hydration is essential

• Moderate alcohol consumption

• Sun protection during equatorial crossings

Expert Booking Strategies

Book Early for Cabin Selection

Repositioning cruises sail less frequently. Balcony cabins sell quickly.

Or Book Last-Minute for Deep Discounts

If flexible, last-minute pricing (60–90 days prior) can drop significantly.

Risk: Limited cabin selection.

Work With a Cruise-Specialized Travel Advisor

According to industry insights discussed in Harvard Business Review regarding complex purchasing decisions, expert intermediaries often improve value perception and reduce decision fatigue.

A cruise travel advisor may offer:

• Extra onboard credit

• Group rates

• Fare monitoring

• Repricing assistance

Pros and Cons of Royal Caribbean Repositioning Cruises

ProsCons

Lower per-day costOne-way airfare

Unique itinerariesFewer ports

Relaxed paceLonger time commitment

Fewer crowdsWeather unpredictability

Who Should Book a Repositioning Cruise?

Ideal for:

• Retirees

• Remote workers

• Slow travelers

• Experienced cruisers

• Budget-conscious long-haul travelers

Less ideal for:

• Families with school-age children

• Travelers with limited vacation days

• Port-intensive cruise lovers

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Are repositioning cruises cheaper than regular cruises?

Yes, often significantly cheaper per day. However, total trip cost depends on airfare and travel logistics.

2. How far in advance should I book?

6–12 months ahead for best cabin selection. Last-minute deals are possible but not guaranteed.

3. Do repositioning cruises include fewer activities?

No. All onboard amenities operate normally. In fact, enrichment lectures are often expanded during sea days.

4. What happens if weather disrupts a transatlantic crossing?

Cruise ships are designed for ocean crossings and adjust routes for safety. Royal Caribbean follows maritime safety standards and international maritime regulations.

5. Can I work remotely on a repositioning cruise?

Yes, but Wi-Fi quality varies. Check internet packages before booking.

6. Are repositioning cruises good for first-time cruisers?

They can be — if you enjoy sea days. Port-focused travelers may prefer traditional itineraries first.

7. Do I need a visa for a transatlantic cruise?

It depends on your nationality and ports of call. Always consult official government travel websites before departure.

8. Is travel insurance mandatory?

Not mandatory, but strongly recommended — especially for one-way international sailings.

9. Are children allowed?

Yes, but repositioning cruises often have fewer family-focused activities due to passenger demographics.

10. Do loyalty perks apply?

Yes. Crown & Anchor Society benefits apply the same as regular sailings.