Cruising is more affordable than you might think
It’s a big misconception that cruises are expensive. They are indeed a luxury vacation, but they are also one of the best values in travel. In fact, when selecting our sailing for King Con Cruise, we shopped for an itinerary that would be comparable in price with any major land-based convention and came in below the mark.
When you consider that your cruise fare includes not just a hotel room, but also 24-hour dining (including room service), world-class entertainment, and more than one port of call, you start to see what a bargain cruising really is. Plus, as part of King Con Cruise, you get to join our group for an exclusive VIP experience you won’t find anywhere else!
In other words, no matter what your vacation or convention budget, King Con Cruise has an option you can afford. Interior cabins cost about the same as a nice hotel room, and one-of-a-kind adventures and five star dinners with the guests are included with every badge. Budgetary bonus: you can budget for your trip without having to worry about unexpected costs because you can enjoy your cruise without spending a single dollar on your entire trip! AND, if you don’t want to pay the full cost upfront, you can book for a small deposit and pay the balance in installments.
In short, cruising in general really is a great value, and cruising with King Con Cruise levels the up with the addition of priceless memories of enjoying the best vacation ever with our King Con Cruise Community!
Food & Drinks are FREE!
Something extra awesome about cruising is that food and drinks are included in your cabin fare! Of course, there are limits to what’s included, but you can still get meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks 24 hours a day without any additional charge, even room service for when you’re feeling lazy.
In other words, you do not need to budget anything for meals on board unless you choose to go to one of the (optional) paid restaurants.
You can have breakfast delivered to your room for no additional charge, just fill out the menu card in your cabin and and put it on your door to place your order.
Feeling extra hungry at dinner? Can’t decide which dessert you want? Don’t be shy in the dining room! Order both – the waitstaff will bring you as much as you want.
Looking for a late night snack? Head to the promenade for pizza or a sandwich! Or get an ice cream by the pool! All included.
Still having concerns because of dietary restrictions? Worry no more! There are a variety of dining options for those on specialized diets, including gluten free and plant-based. And if you have allergies, just let your friendly wait staff know what to look out for on day one, and they will double check the ingredients for you on any dish!
In other words, no matter what your dietary requirements, you can eat like the monarch of your choosing for the full week without spending a dime!
Things to know before your first cruise
Cruising is a great way to vacation (especially if you are cruising with us!), but it is different from travel as you may be used to it. Planning in advance for those differences will help make for a fun trip from the very start!
Just a few pro tips:
- Plan to arrive at your departure city a day or more before the cruise. Your ship may leave in late afternoon, but delays could make you late to board. If that happens, the ship will leave without you.
- Make sure you print your Royal Caribbean luggage tags (found in the “Travel Documents” you will receive when you check in) and attach them to your bags prior to arriving at Port. These tags tell the ship’s porters where to take your luggage.
- Add your credit/debit card to your account when you check in, and you will not need to use cash for anything on board, including purchases on the ship.
- If you have a medical device such as a CPAP or other item that you need to be bed side (requiring an extension cord) or need things like distilled water, tell Royal Caribbean in advance so they can provide those items in the cabin before you arrive.
- Pack any necessities — medication, important documents, phone chargers — in a carry-on bag. You will board the ship well before your luggage reaches your cabin, so plan to carry anything you will need with you. (If you’ve got room, include your bathing suits and sunscreen so you can immediately jump in the pool!)
- Prebook excursions and activities before you leave home. If your heart is set on a particular shore excursion, spa service, class, or specialty restaurant, book them in advance, as reservations onboard fill up quickly. Bonus: booking in advance allows you to take advantage of sales!
- Switch your phone to airplane mode. International roaming rates can apply even if you don’t make a call, so switch to airplane mode as soon as you leave port.
- Watch the clock. Some ports are in different time zones than the ship’s clock, so synchronize your watches if you go ashore. The ship won’t wait for you if you’re late!
If you have any more tips and tricks, feel free to leave them in the comments!
What should I pack?
There are so many different adventures to be had on King Con Cruise, it would be easy to overpack. However, there are a few thing you definitely should (and should not!) make sure you bring along:
Do NOT pack power strips – they will be confiscated.
Pack your power cords in your carry on. If you pack them in your luggage, you may need them before you get your bags.
Bring backup batteries to charge items while away from the cabin. You won’t be spending a lot of time in yours!
A multi port USB charging hub will benefit you if you have multiple devices, as outlets will be limited in your cabin.
Bring sunscreen! And a rash guard, sunglasses, and a hat… and aloe for when you forget to apply the above.
Pick up a dry bag, depending on which excursions you plan – it will keep your phone, wallet, external battery, towel, and whatever else dry and handy.
Magnetic hooks and clips are handy to have, as cabin walls and ceilings are made of metal. Useful for hanging bags, clothes, towels, hats, etc.
Make sure you remember any medication needed, including prescribed medications (enough to last the full trip plus a couple extra days in case of delay). Don’t forget to include medication for motion sickness if you are prone to it!
Double check any excursion you’ve signed up for. There will usually be a list of things to bring at the end.
Most importantly, make sure you bring along a sense of FUN!!!
Friendly Reminder: Cruising is "Roaming"
Roam if you want to, but remember your cellular provider is going to charge you for it! Unless you have an international calling plan, you can return home from a perfect vacation to a surprisingly large phone bill.
To avoid incurring extra charges on your cruise, there’s a simple yet effective solution: airplane mode.
Why Airplane Mode?
- Avoid Roaming Charges: When your phone is in airplane mode, it cannot connect to cellular networks, which means you won't incur expensive roaming charges from the cruise ship's network or any other unintended network.
- Prevent Background Data Usage: Smartphones often use data for app updates, notifications, and other background activities. Airplane mode prevents these activities from occurring, helping you avoid unexpected data charges.
But what if I want to keep in contact?
- You can still use Wi-Fi while in airplane mode. Connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network or Wi-Fi hotspots at ports of call to stay connected.
- You’ll still be able to use apps that rely on Wi-Fi, like iMessage, email, and internet browsing.
- The Royal Caribbean app also has a built in chat feature that will let you message your group even without Wi-Fi!
Once you're onboard and settled, use your phone to communicate any important updates or messages to family and friends. After that, enable airplane mode and keep your phone in airplane mode throughout the cruise. This will ensure that your phone remains disconnected from cellular networks, avoiding any extra charges.
Additional Tips:
- Check Your Phone Settings: Some people recommend turning off data roaming as well, but enabling airplane mode is usually a more straightforward option and provides a more comprehensive solution.
- Monitor Data Usage: If you prefer not to use airplane mode, ensure that you turn off data roaming and closely monitor your data usage settings.
Afraid you'll get seasick? Don't be!
One of the biggest things we hear from potential cruisers is that they are worried they'll get seasick. While that fear is technically grounded in reality, seasickness on a cruise is actually quite rare, thanks to modern ship design and stabilization technology. In other words, while it can still happen, most passengers never feel any ill effects and those who do can generally manage it with ease.
Don't let yourself miss out on the vacation of a lifetime - If you’re worried about getting seasick, there are several effective strategies to prevent or manage it:
Prevention Strategies:
- Medication:
- Over-the-Counter: Taking medications like Dramamine or Bonine before you start feeling queasy can be very effective. These drugs help prevent the onset of seasickness.
- Prescription Patches: For more serious concerns, a doctor can prescribe a scopolamine patch that you wear behind your ear. It’s effective for long-term prevention and works for the duration of your cruise.
- Natural Remedies:
- Ginger: Ginger pills or ginger tea can help settle your stomach.
- Peppermint: Peppermint tea or candies might also help alleviate symptoms.
- Green Apples: Eating green apples is a traditional remedy some people find helpful.
- Wristbands: Acupressure wristbands claim to alleviate nausea by applying pressure to specific points on your wrist.
- Herbal Patches: There are a number of non-medicated patches available over the counter. They work the same as the prescription patches, but contain herbal remedies like ginger.
Managing Seasickness:
- Immediate Medication: If you start feeling queasy, taking an over-the-counter medication like Dramamine or Nauzene can quickly help you feel better.
- Stay on Deck: Getting fresh air and looking at the horizon can help your body adjust and alleviate symptoms.
- Hydration and Light Meals: Drink plenty of water and eat light, bland foods to avoid upsetting your stomach further.
Additional Tips:
- Choose you Cabin Wisely: Midship cabins on lower decks tend to experience less motion compared to those at the front or back of the ship.
- Hydrate and Wear Sun Protection: Dehydration can cause some of the same symptoms as seasickness.
Most likely, you won't need to use any of these tips, but it never hurst to be informed!
What to expect at boarding
Boarding a cruise ship, especially with Royal Caribbean, has become streamlined and straightforward, though there are still several important steps and details to keep in mind to ensure a smooth embarkation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process with ease:
- Pre-Cruise Check-In
- Online Check-In:
- Timing: Complete your online check-in as soon as it becomes available, which is 45 days before your sailing date.
- Steps: Download the Royal Caribbean app and sign in to your account. If you don't have an account, create one and link your reservation.
- Requirements: You’ll need your travel documents, a credit card, and a selfie photo for identification.
- Health Questionnaire: Complete this 24 hours before sailing. Set a reminder to ensure it’s done on time.
- Selecting Check-In Time:
- Availability: Choose your preferred check-in time slot. Early slots can fill up quickly, so book as soon as possible.
- Flexibility: If you arrive outside your selected window, you’ll still be admitted, but try to stick to your chosen time to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Online Check-In:
- Arrival at the Cruise Terminal
- Timing: Arrive at the terminal according to your check-in time slot. If you arrive too early, you may need to wait in a designated area until your time.
- Arrival Tips: Aim to arrive during your time window to avoid long waits and ensure a smooth check-in process.
- What to Bring:
- Documents: Passport or other travel documentation.
- Boarding Pass: Royal Caribbean app or a printed copy.
- Luggage Tags: Printed and attached to your luggage.
- Credit Card: For onboard expenses and verification.
- Carry-On Essentials: Keep these items handy in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage.
- Checking In
- Initial Verification:
- Port Agent: When you first enter the terminal, a port agent will verify your boarding pass and documents to ensure you’re in the right place.
- Security Screening: Similar to airport security, place your carry-on items on the conveyor belt for screening. Remove any metal objects but leave shoes and belts on.
- Actual Check-In:
- Tablet Check-In: Most terminals use tablets for processing check-ins. If you’ve completed pre-cruise check-in, this should be quick.
- Verification: The agent will scan your SetSail pass (from the app or printed) and verify your details. This step can take 1-10 minutes depending on your pre-cruise preparation.
- Initial Verification:
- Boarding the Ship
- Waiting to Board:
- Possible Delays: If the ship isn’t ready for boarding, you may need to wait in the terminal. Delays can occur due to disembarking passengers, local authority clearance, or technical issues.
- Efficiency: Royal Caribbean aims to board passengers efficiently, but actual boarding time can vary.
- Boarding Process:
- Final Verification: Once your turn comes, you’ll verify your sailing credentials one last time.
- Photo Opportunity: There may be a photo opportunity at the gangway, which you can choose to participate in or skip.
- Gangway: The walk onto the ship via the gangway is typically quick.
- Waiting to Board:
- Estimated Boarding Time
- Quick Process: With efficient pre-cruise check-in and smooth operations, you could board the ship in as little as 10 minutes.
- Potential Delays: If you arrive before the ship is ready, expect at least 30 minutes. Delays due to inefficient processing or system issues could extend this to 45-60 minutes.
- Norm: For Royal Caribbean, the average boarding time from arrival at the terminal to getting on the ship is around 10-20 minutes, thanks to their efficient procedures and facial recognition technology.
By following these steps and preparing in advance, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable start to your cruise vacation. We can't wait to see you on board!
Pack like a pro with these 20 tips!
Here are 20 flight attendants’ packing hacks that will revolutionize your travel experience, making it smoother and more organized:
- Shower Caps for Shoes
- Why: Keeps dirty or muddy shoes from soiling other items.
- How: Slip your shoes into shower caps before packing. They’re also handy for protecting electronic gadgets from rain.
- The Belt Trick for Wrinkle-Free Shirts
- Why: Prevents dress shirts from wrinkling.
- How: Pack shirts inside out and tuck a rolled belt inside the collar to keep it crisp.
- Pill Boxes for Jewelry
- Why: Provides a compact, organized way to store jewelry.
- How: Use pill boxes to keep small jewelry pieces safe and tangle-free.
- Cotton Pads to Protect Cosmetics
- Why: Prevents powders and cosmetics from breaking.
- How: Place cotton pads between layers of cosmetics to cushion them and absorb any impacts.
- Stuff Sneakers with Small Items
- Why: Utilizes space effectively and keeps shoes in shape.
- How: Pack socks, underwear, or small items inside your sneakers. Then use shower caps to keep them clean.
- Glasses Cases for Cables
- Why: Organizes and protects chargers and cables.
- How: Store your phone chargers, earbuds, and other cords in old glasses cases to prevent tangling.
- Label Bags by Day
- Why: Simplifies outfit selection and reduces packing stress.
- How: Label packing cubes or bags with the days of your trip to quickly access outfits for each day.
- Compression Bags for Extra Space
- Why: Reduces the volume of clothes, maximizing suitcase space.
- How: Use compression bags to squeeze out air from soft clothing items, making more room in your luggage.
- Packing Cubes for Organization
- Why: Keeps your suitcase organized and easily accessible.
- How: Use cubes to separate different types of clothing or gear. They also make unpacking a breeze.
- Pack Hats Properly
- Why: Prevents hats from getting squashed or damaged.
- How: Place hats at the bottom of your suitcase and stuff them with soft items. If they get bent, steam them to restore shape.
- Dryer Sheets to Prevent Odors
- Why: Keeps your luggage smelling fresh.
- How: Place dryer sheets between clothing layers or inside shoes. They also help control smells in your laundry bag.
- Leave Room for Souvenirs
- Why: Ensures you have space for items you’ll buy on your trip.
- How: Pack less than you need to allow room for souvenirs. Consider bringing a collapsible duffel bag for extra space.
- Mini Laundry Bag
- Why: Separates dirty laundry from clean clothes.
- How: Use a small bag to store dirty clothes, keeping your suitcase organized and clean.
- Pack Heaviest Items on the Bottom
- Why: Balances your suitcase and prevents it from toppling over.
- How: Place heavier items like shoes or books at the bottom of your suitcase to keep it stable and prevent crushing.
- Keep Liquids Together
- Why: Prevents leaks and keeps liquids organized.
- How: Store liquid items in a plastic bag to prevent spills and keep everything in one place.
- Hanging Toiletry Bag
- Why: Keeps your toiletries organized and accessible.
- How: Hang it from a hook or towel rack in the bathroom to keep essentials off the counter and within easy reach.
- Travel-Sized Bottles
- Why: Saves space and complies with airline liquid restrictions.
- How: Transfer toiletries into small, reusable bottles to keep your liquids organized and within allowable limits.
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Why: Stay hydrated and save money on bottled water.
- How: Use a Hydro Flask to stay hydrated and reduce waste. It’s durable and has a handle for easy carrying.
- Use a Foldable Day Pack or Tote
- Why: Provides extra carrying capacity without taking up much space.
- How: Pack a lightweight, foldable day pack for excursions or beach trips. It’s easy to store when not in use.
- Use a Travel Wallet
- Why: Keep necessary documents and items close at hand while leaving unnecessary cards and cash at home.
- How: Use a passport-sized wallet to keep all of your essentials in one place. Bonus if you find one with a lanyard or strap to keep them extra handy!
Incorporate these packing hacks into your travel routine to streamline your journey, keep your luggage organized, and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Happy travels!
10 travel items to make your cruise experience extra awesome!
King Con Cruise is an amazing experience. You’ll meet new people and travel to new places while disconnecting from your mundane life or daily routine. PLUS all of the excitement of the King Con Cruise events!
Without a doubt, everyone enjoys going on our vacation, but packing for a cruise can be a little different than what you’re used to. Keep scrolling to find some items to make your cruise even better.
Packing cubes are a game changer for efficient packing. Speed up the process, stay organized, and make the most of your cabin’s space with this simple yet effective packing solution.
Did you know the walls and ceiling of your cabin are metal? This makes magnetic hooks a small but mighty addition to your cruise packing list. By using them strategically, you can enhance your cabin's organization, keep your belongings accessible, and make your cruise experience more comfortable. Just remember to choose high-quality hooks and use them thoughtfully to ensure they enhance your cruise without causing any inconvenience.
Bringing a multi-USB hub on a cruise is a smart move for managing your charging needs, especially since cruise cabins typically have limited power outlets and do not allow power strips. This will help you stay connected and ensure your devices are ready for use throughout your cruise.
A hanging toiletry bag is a fantastic solution for managing personal care items in the typically compact space of a cruise ship bathroom. It not only adds convenience and ease to your daily grooming routine, but also keeps your essentials off the sink and counter so you can enjoy a more spacious bathroom area.
When heading off the cruise ship for exciting shore excursions or enjoying beach and poolside adventures, having the right gear is essential. By adding a dry bag to your travel to your packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of activities during your cruise. These items offer practicality and protection, ensuring you can enjoy your adventures without worrying about the safety of your belongings.
Packing an insulated water bottle for your cruise is a smart choice for staying hydrated on your cruise. Its ability to keep drinks cold for hours, combined with its portability and environmental benefits, makes it a valuable addition to your cruise gear.
Compression bags are a fantastic solution for maximizing luggage space, especially when you’re preparing to bring home souvenirs from your cruise. By effectively managing your packing space and protecting your belongings, these bags ensure that you can enjoy your trip without worrying about fitting everything back into your luggage.
Don't miss a memory and keep your phone safe from water and sand during beach excursions or poolside activities.
Don't make yourself choose between adventure or connectivity! Bring extra power for your devices during long excursions or while the ship’s power outlets are occupied.
Decorating the outside of your cruise cabin door is a delightful way to personalize your space, add a touch of creativity to your cruise experience, and make your cabin easier for your travel companions to identify. It’s a fun way to make your cabin stand out, create memorable family moments, and add a touch of nautical charm to your journey.
