In a recent announcement that may impact families planning their cruises, Royal Caribbean has made adjustments to the pricing structure of its beloved kids club, Adventure Ocean. This popular program caters to children aged 6 months to 12 years, providing a safe and engaging environment where kids can play while their parents enjoy some well-deserved time off. While most of the Adventure Ocean programming remains complimentary, certain services now come with added costs. Let’s delve into the changes and explore how they affect your family’s cruise experience.
Adventure Ocean: Overview and Benefits
Adventure Ocean is the dedicated kids club available on all Royal Caribbean ships. Designed to give children a fun-filled experience, the club offers a range of activities from arts and crafts to movie nights and games. The goal is simple: to provide a safe, supervised environment where kids can socialize and thrive while parents relax or take part in onboard activities.
Here are some key benefits of Adventure Ocean:
Age-appropriate activities tailored for different developmental stages Trained counselors who ensure a safe and enjoyable environment Flexible hours to accommodate parents' schedules Engaging programs that promote creativity and teamworkNew Pricing Structure for Late Night Care
One of the most significant changes in the new pricing structure pertains to late-night care in Adventure Ocean. Previously, parents could drop off their children for complimentary care until 10 PM. However, from 10 PM to 1 AM, an hourly charge will now apply. Specifically, the cost for children aged 3 to 12 has increased from $10 per hour to $15 per hour. This change aims to cover the additional staffing and resources required for late-night activities while ensuring that kids continue to have a fantastic time.
Nursery Rates Adjusted for Infants and Toddlers
The nursery, known as Adventure Ocean Babies, caters to infants and toddlers aged 6 to 36 months. Unlike the main Adventure Ocean facility, the nursery has always operated on an hourly rate, and recent updates have adjusted these prices as follows:
$9 per hour until 6 PM (previously $6 per hour) $12 per hour after 6 PM (previously $8 per hour)This adjustment reflects the specialized care provided in the nursery, where trained staff members offer individualized attention, including feeding and nap time, ensuring the youngest cruisers receive the best care possible.
Why Parents Should Consider Adventure Ocean
If you’re a parent contemplating a Royal Caribbean cruise, Adventure Ocean is an invaluable resource. My own family has experienced the benefits firsthand, and I can attest to the quality of care provided. Knowing that my children are in a safe, engaging environment allows my wife and me to fully enjoy our vacation. Whether it's dining at a specialty restaurant or catching a show, Adventure Ocean gives us the freedom to unwind, confident that our kids are having a blast.
Testimonials from Fellow Cruisers
Many families echo these sentiments. Parents frequently express their appreciation for the program, citing the peace of mind that comes from leaving their children in capable hands. Not only do the kids enjoy a variety of activities, but they also make new friends, enhancing their cruise experience.
Additionally, the flexibility of the program allows parents to tailor their evenings. For instance, while many kids may be picked up before the late-night charge kicks in, those who remain often partake in unique, fewer-crowd activities that make for memorable experiences. This exclusivity often leads to lasting friendships and cherished memories for the children involved.
Conclusion: Embracing the Changes for a Better Family Experience
While the new pricing structure for Adventure Ocean may initially raise eyebrows, it’s important to remember the value it offers. Royal Caribbean’s commitment to providing a safe, fun environment for kids remains unwavering, and the enhancements to staffing and resources reflect that dedication. By making these adjustments, Royal Caribbean is ensuring that both children and parents enjoy their cruise to the fullest.
As you plan your next family cruise, consider how Adventure Ocean and its updated pricing can fit into your vacation plans. The opportunity for kids to explore, learn, and play in a safe environment while parents enjoy some personal time is a win-win scenario. With thoughtful planning, your family can still have an incredible experience at sea, making memories that will last a lifetime.
In summary, Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean continues to evolve, providing families with quality childcare that adapts to the needs of its guests. While some services now come at a premium, the benefits of utilizing this program far outweigh the costs, making it a worthwhile investment for families looking to maximize their cruise experience.
--- **Source Attribution:** This article is based on information from [Royal Caribbean Blog](https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2025/10/06 -caribbean-changes-kids-club-prices-nursery-and-late-night-care). We appreciate their original reporting and encourage readers to visit their site for more cruise industry coverage. *Port Side Left aggregates and enhances cruise industry news from multiple sources to provide comprehensive coverage for cruise enthusiasts.*