Is renting a cabana at Coco Cay worth the cost?

Yes, cabanas provide dedicated beach access, VIP service, golf cart shuttle, secure storage for belongings, and a fixed home base for groups—making it a logistics solution rather than just a luxury upgrade.

What should I pack in my carry-on for a cruise?

Pack a change of clothes, bathing suit, and sunscreen in your carry-on to avoid waiting for checked luggage and to protect yourself on the first day at port.

When should I book a cruise to get the best experience?

Book early to secure the best cabin selection, preferred ships, and premium sailing dates; last-minute bookings typically result in fewer options and a less optimal experience.

Should I fly in the day of cruise departure?

No, fly in the night before to avoid flight delays, connections, and last-minute emergencies that could cause you to miss your departure.

Are mega-ships like Oasis of the Seas good for all travelers?

Mega-ships excel for families and groups seeking action-packed vacations with diverse activities, but are not ideal for travelers seeking quiet, adults-only experiences or off-the-beaten-path ports.

Why visit Coco Cay on a cruise?

Coco Cay offers a private island resort experience within a cruise itinerary, with pristine beaches, water activities, and amenities that feel separate from the cruise ship itself.

Jennifer Santos: Three Cruises Later, Oasis of the Seas Still Wins

Some destinations you visit once and check off your list. Others pull you back, year after year, because they somehow keep getting better. For my family, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas has become that second kind of place. I've now sailed this ship three times over five years with my children, watching them grow from toddlers to young teens on its decks. And somehow, my kids keep choosing this ship over new adventures. That tells me something important.

When I first stepped aboard as a travel advisor, I wanted to understand what makes a mega ship work for families across different ages and stages. What I discovered was that this massive vessel adapts to you, not the other way around. From budget to activities to ages, there is literally something for everyone. After three trips, I can confidently say there is enough to do and experience to return again and again.

Perfect Day at CoCo Cay

Bahamas — Jennifer Santos's travel story

If I could book a cruise that stopped at CoCo Cay multiple times, I would do it in a heartbeat. This private island experience is like arriving at a resort for the day, and it has become the highlight my family talks about long after we're home. My insider tip? Rent a cabana. This is one of those recommendations I love sharing with clients and friends because it completely transforms the day. You get a dedicated space to store belongings safely, top VIP service with a golf cart shuttle around the area, direct beach access, and amazing drink service. But beyond the amenities, the cabana becomes a set meet up spot for your group and a nice area to cool off and refresh throughout the day. When you're traveling with multiple families or kids of different ages, that central home base is worth every penny.

One thing that surprises people about cruising is that it can be a different trip experience every time. The mega ships give you so many ways to make each sailing unique. I've watched my children discover new activities on every voyage, growing into different parts of the ship as they've grown as people. There really are areas and things to do for every person, ability, and interest. These vessels are fully inclusive for every member of the family or solo traveler.

The Planning That Makes the Difference

Here's what I've learned firsthand: cruising is all about planning and prep, similar to theme park travel. Working with an advisor who knows all the tips and tricks will help you save and get the most out of the experience. One thing that shocks most people is that when booking a cruise, especially river or premium dates like holidays, the best approach is to book as far in advance as possible. People get stuck on last minute "deals" and are not aware of all the benefits of booking early as well as the pricing guarantee. Low deposits lock in the best rates, rooms, ships, and destinations.

Always fly in the night before a cruise. I used to suggest this only for winter travel due to weather delays, but now the reality is that schedules, flights, and last minute emergencies happen. Starting your trip by finishing all the commuting a day before vacation starts allows you to begin fresh the first morning of your cruise, ready to explore versus being drained and needing to unwind. Another tip I share: ensure your carry on bag is packed with a change of clothes, bathing suit, and sunscreen. I often see people completely burnt on day two because they forgot to bring sunscreen in their carry on and didn't get to their bags until boat departure time around dinner.

Who These Mega Ships Are Made For

Mega cruises are amazing for groups and those looking for action packed vacations. Not to say you couldn't relax or find quiet areas, but these ships are busy. For that reason, I wouldn't recommend them to people looking for a quiet, adults only atmosphere or unique destination stops. These massive boats can only fit into major ports, so you get limited port varieties. Think of these mega ships as part of the destination itself, a floating resort where the journey matters as much as the places you visit.

For families with kids of any age, groups traveling together, or anyone who wants endless options at their fingertips, this is the sweet spot. After raising children over the past decade and adapting our travel to be more family focused with shorter travel times and single destination trips, I know exactly what works. My kids are now well traveled and great travel companions, and these sailings have been a huge part of that education. When clients ask me about Royal Caribbean's mega ships, I'm not reading from a brochure. I'm sharing first hand experience that sets you apart from relying on search sites or generic online reviews.