I have always enjoyed the experience of cruising, from the delicious food to the exciting ports of call. But one aspect that can make or break my vacation is the accommodation.
I have stayed in everything from inside staterooms to grand suites, but I often find myself wondering if upgrading to a Junior Suite is worth the extra cost.
After some research and personal experience, I have put together this article to help others decide if upgrading to a Junior Suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise is worth the perks.
While there are certainly benefits to having more space and added amenities, it’s important to consider the specific ship and individual needs before making the decision to upgrade.
So, let’s dive in and explore the categories of accommodation, what a Junior Suite entails, and the perks and considerations that come with the upgrade.
- Junior Suites on Royal Caribbean offer more space than a balcony cabin, a bathtub, and a walk-in closet, making them popular with families with young children or cruisers who are larger than average size.
- Perks of Junior Suites include use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe, luxury bathroom toiletries, luxury pillow-top mattress, tea and coffee making facilities, dinner at Coastal Kitchen (on Oasis- and Spectrum-class ships), priority boarding (depending on the embarkation port), and double Crown Anchor points.
- Junior Suites usually cost a couple of hundred dollars more than a balcony stateroom, but families with babies or those who value extra space in the bathroom may find it worth the upgrade.
- While Grand Suites come with even more perks such as concierge service, access to VIP areas, and priority reservations, Junior Suites are still a step up in terms of comfort and amenities compared to balcony staterooms.
Categories of Accommodation
I already know that Royal Caribbean offers different categories of accommodation, including Inside Staterooms, Ocean View Staterooms, Balcony Staterooms, and Suites.
Each category comes with its own set of pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.
Inside Staterooms are the most affordable option, but they can be cramped and lack windows.
Ocean View Staterooms offer a bit more space and a view of the ocean, but they can still be small.
Balcony Staterooms are more spacious and come with a private balcony, but they can be pricier.
Suites are the most luxurious option and offer a range of amenities, but they come with a higher price tag.
When considering the cost comparison between these options, it’s important to factor in not just the initial price, but also any additional perks or savings that may come with each category.
What is a Junior Suite?
The Junior Suite on Royal Caribbean cruise ships is a popular choice for those who desire more space than a balcony stateroom. It is the smallest and most affordable of the suites, but still offers a variety of benefits.
Junior Suites usually feature a bathtub and walk-in closet, making them ideal for families with young children or cruisers who appreciate extra space. They typically sleep up to four guests with a king-size bed and a double sofa bed.
Compared to the Grand Suite, the Junior Suite offers fewer perks such as concierge service and access to VIP areas. However, it’s still a great option for those looking for a comfortable and spacious cabin.
Availability of Junior Suites varies depending on the Royal Caribbean ship, so it’s important to check with your travel agent or the cruise line to see if it’s available on your desired ship.
Size and Features
Size and features of the Junior Suite on Royal Caribbean cruise ships vary depending on the ship, with an average size of 290 square feet. The Junior Suite decor is elegant and modern, with plenty of space for up to four guests.
The Junior Suite amenities include a bathtub and a walk-in closet, which is a favorite among families with young children. Additionally, the Junior Suite has a king-size bed that can convert to twins and a double sofa bed.
The Junior Suite is larger than balcony staterooms and provides more space for guests to relax. The luxury pillow-top mattress and the use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe and luxury bathroom toiletries add to the experience.
Tea and coffee making facilities are also available, and guests can enjoy dinner at Coastal Kitchen (on Oasis- and Spectrum-class ships). Priority boarding (depending on the embarkation port) and double Crown Anchor points are also included.
Overall, the Junior Suite is a great upgrade option for those looking for a bit more space and luxury on their Royal Caribbean cruise.
Perks of Junior Suites
Having more space and access to luxury amenities like a bathtub and double Crown Anchor points makes booking a Junior Suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise a smart choice for families and frequent cruisers looking for added value.
The Junior Suite is larger than balcony staterooms and usually features a bathtub and walk-in closet.
Families with young children especially appreciate the extra space and bath, while larger cruisers value the larger bathroom.
Luxury amenities also include the use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe, luxury bathroom toiletries, and a luxury pillow-top mattress.
Junior Suite guests also get to enjoy dinner at Coastal Kitchen (on Oasis- and Spectrum-class ships) and priority boarding (depending on the embarkation port).
While the cost of upgrading to a Junior Suite may be a couple of hundred dollars more than a balcony stateroom, it is worth comparing the cost of all accommodation options to find the best value.
Families with babies love Junior Suites as they have plenty of room to add a cot (Pack n Play) and a bathtub is much easier than a shower.
Frequent cruisers who want to work their way up the Crown Anchor Society tiers to get extra benefits will appreciate the double points that come with a Junior Suite.
Overall, the added luxury amenities and space make the upgrade to a Junior Suite worth considering for those looking for a little extra comfort on their Royal Caribbean cruise.
Comparison to Balcony Staterooms
I prefer comparing balcony staterooms to junior suites when deciding on accommodations for my Royal Caribbean cruise. While it’s true that junior suites offer more space than balcony staterooms, the cost difference may not always be justified.
If you’re traveling solo, the extra space and perks in a junior suite may not be worth the additional cost. In this case, an ocean view stateroom with a balcony can be a better choice.
However, if you’re traveling with a group or a family, the extra space and amenities in a junior suite can make a big difference. With a walk-in closet, bathtub, and extra sleeping space, a junior suite can provide a more comfortable and convenient experience.
Additionally, if you’re aiming to work your way up to higher Crown Anchor Society tiers, the double points that come with booking a junior suite can make it worth the upgrade.
In the end, it’s all about weighing the cost and benefits to determine which accommodation is the best fit for your specific needs and preferences.
Value for Families
For families, the extra amenities and space provided in a Junior Suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise can greatly enhance their overall experience.
With a larger size than a balcony stateroom, families with infants can easily add a cot and have more room for activities. Additionally, the inclusion of a bathtub in most Junior Suites makes bath time with young children much easier than in a smaller bathroom with just a shower.
Other perks that come with a Junior Suite, such as use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe and luxury bathroom toiletries, can also add to the feeling of luxury and relaxation for parents. And the double Crown Anchor points can be a bonus for frequent cruisers who want to work their way up the tiers for extra benefits.
Overall, the Junior Suite provides a comfortable and convenient option for families who want to elevate their cruise experience.
Crown Anchor Points
The double Crown Anchor points offered with a Royal Caribbean Junior Suite are a valuable benefit for frequent cruisers looking to climb the tiers for extra rewards. Redeeming points can lead to loyalty benefits such as priority boarding, room service, and concierge services.
However, it’s important to note that these benefits are not exclusive to Junior Suite guests and can also be earned through the Royal Up bidding program or by booking higher-level suites such as the Grand Suite.
While the Junior Suite does not come with as many perks as the Grand Suite, it still offers value for those who prioritize extra space and a more luxurious experience. Dining options like Coastal Kitchen and VIP access to certain areas of the ship are just a few of the benefits that come with booking a Junior Suite.
Overall, the double Crown Anchor points make the upgrade worth considering for frequent cruisers who want to maximize their rewards and get the most out of their Royal Caribbean experience.
Other Considerations
Considering additional factors beyond the size and amenities of the Junior Suite can help cruisers make an informed decision about their accommodations on a Royal Caribbean cruise. One important consideration is the cost comparison between the Junior Suite and other room categories. While the Junior Suite may be more expensive than a balcony stateroom, it may be worth the extra cost for families with young children or larger individuals who appreciate the extra space. However, for those who prioritize access to VIP areas and exclusive events, the Grand Suite may be a better option.
Another factor to consider is dining options. While Coastal Kitchen is available on several Royal Caribbean ships and is included in the Junior Suite perks, it is not available on all ships. Additionally, while Junior Suite guests may have priority when making dining reservations, they do not have guaranteed access to specialty restaurants such as Chops Grille or Izumi. Therefore, cruisers who prioritize dining experiences may want to consider the Grand Suite, which comes with priority reservations for dining, spa services, and excursions. Ultimately, weighing all factors can help cruisers make the best decision for their Royal Caribbean vacation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| More space than a balcony cabin | More expensive than a balcony stateroom |
| Luxury bathroom toiletries | Coastal Kitchen not available on all ships |
| Use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe | No guaranteed access to specialty restaurants |
| Luxury pillow-top mattress | |
| Priority boarding | |
| Double Crown Anchor points |
Are there any additional perks or benefits for Grand Suite guests beyond what is mentioned for Junior Suite guests?
Comparing amenities, Grand Suite guests have access to concierge service, VIP areas, special events, and priority reservations for dining, spa services, and excursions. It is a better value for money if you prioritize these perks over space.
Are there any Junior Suites that are not connected to other rooms or balcony staterooms?
Private Junior Suites are available on some Royal Caribbean ships and offer all the amenities of a Junior Suite without being connected to other rooms or balcony staterooms. These suites provide extra privacy and are perfect for those who want a more secluded experience.
Are there any restrictions or limitations on the priority boarding perk for Junior Suite guests?
I was excited to experience priority boarding as a Junior Suite guest on my Royal Caribbean cruise. However, I found out that there are restrictions and limitations on this perk, depending on the embarkation port and ship.
Can Junior Suite guests make reservations for Coastal Kitchen on all Royal Caribbean cruise ships?
Yes, Junior Suite guests can make reservations for Coastal Kitchen on select Royal Caribbean cruise ships. However, the availability of this restaurant may vary by ship. Additionally, there may be restrictions on priority boarding for Junior Suite guests depending on embarkation port.
Are there any additional costs or fees associated with booking a Junior Suite beyond the standard gratuity fee?
Booking a Junior Suite on Royal Caribbean incurs an upgrade cost, but no additional fees beyond the standard gratuity. Compared to balcony staterooms, Junior Suites offer more amenities such as luxury toiletries and priority boarding.