Very smooth non-stop flight from PHL to SJU. Landed at about 4 PM and went right to the Embassy Suite and Casino which was just about 10 minutes from the airport. The Embassy was a very nice pre-cruise hotel which had a delicious, buffet breakfast in the morning. It was only a 5 minute walk to a nearby Walgreens in case you needed some last minute items, like us.

Left the hotel at about 11:15 AM for the trip to the pier. There was a line of people dropping off their luggage. After that was dealt with, we were directed to another long line which was the final step to getting into the terminal.. The door to the terminal weren’t yet open because all of the passengers from the previous cruise hadn’t yet disembarked. According to the rules, new passengers can’t board until all the returning ones were off. The Set Sail pass did state that boarding would take place beginning at 1:30 PM. So, if you’re an early bird, you may have to wait for a while in a long line in the heat. The terminal doors finally opened at about 12:45 PM and people began filing in. Once inside, the registration process was smooth and seamless by a very friendly Royal staff. We headed directly to the Windjammer for lunch and shortly after finishing, went to our cabin which was ready. Speaking of Set Sail passes, make sure you have one printed up and in hand since it will save a lot of time at registration and getting your Sea Pass. The elevators going to the Windjammer (Deck 11) will probably be packed, so walk to the rear of the ship and use the banks of elevators there. Doing so should save you from a long wait with people hauling their carry on bags.

There’s a shop inside the terminal building where you can buy the two bottles of wine each cabin is allowed to bring aboard. The selection was pretty good and the prices not too bad. Since your bags have already been screened, simply buy your wine and carry it aboard with you. Very nice touch, Royal! Read more