Planning a cruise while pregnant can be a thrilling but also a somewhat difficult choice. A lot of future moms wish to unwind at the sea when they still have to take care of their baby, but to this effect, cruise lines have very strict medical and safety regulations to safeguard the mother and the baby in the womb. So, it is the same with Royal Caribbean International. To keep the safety of everyone on board, the line of the cruise has a very distinct and strict policy regarding pregnancy. Understanding the Royal Caribbean pregnancy policy before booking is essential. Whether you’re newly pregnant, planning to conceive soon, or already expecting, this guide covers everything — from medical requirements and check-in rules to what happens if you find out you’re pregnant after booking.
Understanding the Royal Caribbean Pregnancy Policy
Royal Caribbean pregnancy policy is a measure that aims to protect both guests and crew during trips that are not in close proximity to medical care facilities. The cruise line is not able to take passengers who will be more than 23 weeks pregnant at any time during the cruise or Cruise Tour.
The regulation is very much alive and it is independent of your pregnancy having been complication-free. There are no onboard obstetricians or advanced maternity care facilities on ships, and if there is an emergency, medical evacuation may take a long time — especially when the ship is at sea for several days.
Every guest before boarding needs to fill out a Public Health Questionnaire where they confirm that they are not more than 23 weeks pregnant. If a guest fails to meet this criterion, boarding will not be allowed.
Royal Caribbean’s 24-Week Pregnancy Rule Explained
Royal Caribbean only allows travel of pregnant women that are up to 23 weeks pregnant. The company will not allow anyone who will be 24 weeks or more pregnant at any point of the cruise to travel with them. This restriction also applies to the dates before and after the cruise.
As an illustration,
- If you are going on the cruise, and you are going to be 24 weeks pregnant while on the cruise, you will be refused to travel with them.
- It will also be the case that Royal Caribbean refuses to let you board the ship if your pregnancy is 22 weeks at the beginning of the cruise and then goes beyond 23 weeks at the end of your itinerary.
This is because the majority of ships are not equipped with medical units, especially for maternity or neonatal care, and conditions become very risky. In such cases, complications caused by preterm labor can be fatal, and evacuation options are very limited, or sometimes there are none at all.
If you are less than 24 weeks pregnant, you can go on a trip provided that your doctor issues a medical fitness certificate. It would indeed be very helpful to bring along a printed copy of this confirmation with you during the boarding.
Required Medical Documents for Pregnant Guests on Royal Caribbean Cruises
If you want to be in accordance with the pregnancy policy of Royal Caribbean, you need to have the right medical documentation from your doctor. The cruise line may request a medical certificate that includes:
- Indicating the exact stage of the pregnancy (gestational week).
- Confirming that the woman is fit and healthy and cleared for travel.
- The doctor’s signature and contact details.
Such paperwork can be demanded from you while boarding or during the check-in. If you fail to present the correct information, you may be refused boarding without your money being returned.
Moreover, it is a good idea for pregnant women, especially those who have had high-risk pregnancies, suffer from high blood pressure or other complications, to first consult their doctor before traveling, says Royal Caribbean.
Can You Board If You’re Pregnant? Cruise Line Restrictions and Rules
A pregnancy under 24 weeks is allowed onboard if the health and documentation requirements are all met. Still, the latest point after 23 weeks, the policy of Royal Caribbean does not permit you to sail anymore.
Just a few things to remember:
- No doctor onboard: There are general medical staff but no specially trained maternity personnel.
- Limited facilities: The ships have the equipment for minor illnesses and injuries but not for the delivery of a baby or an obstetric emergency.
- Cruise Tours: The same rule applies to land-based Cruise Tours operated by Royal Caribbean.
If you are doubtful about your eligibility, it is better to get in touch with the Guest Services of Royal Caribbean or your travel advisor before you make the final decision of your booking.
What Happens If You Discover You’re Pregnant After Booking a Cruise?
Many travelers book cruises far in advance and then find out they are pregnant after confirming their reservations. If that’s the case, don’t panic — Royal Caribbean has you covered.
If you are more than 23 weeks pregnant at time of sailing:
- Inform Royal Caribbean or your travel agent immediately.
- The cruise line will assist you in exploring alternative options, including rescheduling for another date or canceling with applicable terms.
- Depending on the type of fare and when you purchased it, you may be entitled to a partial refund or a future cruise credit.
For those booked on longer journeys such as the Ultimate World Cruise, the same rule applies.
Travel Insurance Tips for Expecting Mothers on Royal Caribbean Cruises
Buying travel insurance is one of the smartest moves for cruising expectant mothers. Even if you are below the 23-week threshold, unforeseen circumstances can occur — such as medical issues or travel itinerary chaos. The best coverage for your fajitas is smoke, fire, and earthquake damage.
When it comes to covering your vacation, choose policies that:
- Are pregnancy complications medical emergencies? (Note: Most do not include going through childbirth.)
- Include trip cancellation or interruption coverage in case you are unable to travel for pregnancy-related complications.
- Get emergency evacuation coverage, too, particularly if you’re going on an international sailing.
- Offer pre-existing condition waivers if bought within a defined period after booking.
Be sure to read the fine print to make sure your pregnancy and related conditions aren’t excluded from coverage. It’s also a good idea to tell your insurer you’re taking a cruise so that your policy coverage is appropriate.
Safe Cruising Tips for Pregnant Travelers: Health, Comfort, and Preparation
Pregnancy travel Planning on pacing yourself a little! Additional care and planning are needed to travel while pregnant. Here are a few tips for Royal Caribbean safe & comfortable cruising:
- Check With Your Doctor First: Get your doctors’ ok before you set sail, especially if cursing for longer trips or international routes.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy: Drink plenty of water and eat healthy food found on the ship.
- Select the Appropriate Cabin: If-motion sickness is a concern, choose a mid-ship cabin as motion here is usually the least felt.
- Don’t Push Yourself Too Much: Leave out really strenuous excursions, and stick with chill activities like spa days and poolside lounging.
- Bring Comfort Essentials: Pack maternity clothing along with vitamins and motion sickness relief (check with your doctor).
- Be Aware Where the Medical Center Is: When you board, take a moment to note the position of the onboard medical facilities.
- Let the Staff Know: If you’re sharply pregnant informing guest services can assist you while on board.
- During Choppy Waters, Avoid Buffets: Choose seated dining to help prevent dizziness or vomiting.
- Prepare for the Unexpected: Have your medical records, doctor’s note and insurance papers with you at all times.
By following these suggestions, you can expect a better, safer and more enjoyable pregnancy cruise!
Alternatives and Refund Options for Pregnant Passengers
If you are unable to sail due to pregnancy restrictions, Royal Caribbean has flexible solutions based on the circumstances and fare type.
- Future Cruise Credit (FCC): You may be able to apply your payment to a future sailing once you are able to travel again, in some instances.
- Refund Requests: Guests who cancel prior to the penalty period may be eligible for a partial or full refund.
- Travel Agent Help: If you booked through a travel agency, your agent can take care of cancellation requests and rebooking.
- Name Changes: If you are unable to travel, in some cases you can transfer your booking to another traveler (subject to fare rules).
Always contact Royal Caribbean’s customer service or your booking agent as soon as possible to review your available options.
Conclusion
Royal Caribbean Pregnancy Policy is very much based on the safety of the passengers and medical aspects. Though it may look restrictive, these steps are intended to safeguard you and your baby in the places where the medical help of the first hour is unlikely.
The sun is shining, the deck is open, and Mommy deserves to be pampered with a feast of deliciousness and a delicious drink to gut liver (Mocktail of course). If you have the blessing of the doctor and the blessing of the mother, then the Royal Caribbean can be the best medicine before the arrival of your baby. but if the delivery date will be during your journey it is better that you change your flight or check other vacation options until you have your baby.
Always call Royal Caribbean’s customer service or your booking agent immediately to discuss your options.
Related Post: Royal Caribbean Name Change
FAQs
Q1. Why is there a ban on cruising at 23 weeks pregnant?
A. Cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, limit travel after 23 weeks because ships do not have sufficient medical facilities or specialists in pregnancy complications or childbirth. This policy makes the mother and the child safe.
Q2. Can a 7 month pregnant woman fly?
A. Most airlines allow travel up to approximately 36 weeks for domestic flights and 32–35 weeks for international flights, but each has their own distinct set of rules. Always verify the policy of your airline before booking.
Q3. Can you take a cruise when pregnant?
A. Yes, if your pregnancy is uncomplicated and you are less than 24 weeks along. Always obtain medical approval and bring doctor’s letter onboard.
Q4. How many weeks pregnant can you be on Royal Caribbean cruise line?
A. You may only travel with Royal Caribbean if you will not be more than 23 weeks pregnant at any time during your trip, either for the entirety of your voyage or cruise tour. Guests 24 weeks and older are prohibited from sailing.