If you’re new to Royal Caribbean, you might be wondering: Do I need to buy VOOM internet just to use the Royal Caribbean app? The short answer is no, the app works without VOOM. But there are some important details you’ll want to know before you sail.
The Royal Caribbean App vs VOOM Internet
The Royal Caribbean app is free and designed as your onboard planning tool. The VOOM internet package is Royal’s paid service that gives you access to the wider internet.
Here’s the difference:
- App without VOOM (free): Works in airplane mode as long as you’re connected to the ship’s free Wi-Fi network.
- App with VOOM (paid add-on): You’ll get all the free app features plus full internet access: email, web browsing, social media, streaming, and more.
What You Can Do in the Royal Caribbean App Without VOOM
- Access your SetSail pass for boarding.
- View your daily Cruise Compass schedule digitally.
- Make or adjust dining, show, and activity reservations.
- Use the app’s chat feature to message other people in your sailing party.
- Check your onboard account balance and charges.
What You Cannot Do Without VOOM
- Browse the internet.
- Check email.
- Use iMessage, WhatsApp, or text your friends back home.
- Scroll TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.
- Stream music, videos, or TV.
If you need those things, you’ll need to purchase a VOOM package for the number of devices you want online.
Pro Tips for First-Time Cruisers
- Download the app before you sail. It can be difficult to download or update once you’re onboard.
- Airplane mode is your best friend. Keep your phone in airplane mode but with Wi-Fi turned on. This lets you use the app without risking roaming charges.
- Check the ship’s features. Not all older ships support every function in the app so test things out once you board.
- Reserve early. The app opens reservations for shows, dining, and activities as soon as you’re onboard. Don’t wait until later in the cruise when spots fill up.
FAQs: Royal Caribbean App vs VOOM
Q: Can I board the ship with just the app, or do I need to print something?
A: Yes, you can board with just your SetSail pass in the app. Printing a paper copy is optional, but it’s handy as a backup.
Q: Can kids use the app without VOOM?
A: Yes. Every guest is assigned a guest number, even children. Parents can manage their kids’ profiles if the child doesn’t have their own phone.
Q: Does the app work in airplane mode?
A: Yes, in fact, you should use it in airplane mode with Wi-Fi turned on. That way you won’t accidentally connect to “Cellular at Sea” and get roaming charges.
Q: Is the Royal Caribbean app free?
A: Absolutely. There’s no charge to use it onboard. VOOM is the separate, paid internet package.
Q: Can I message friends at home using the app?
A: No. The app’s messaging feature only works with other guests on your sailing. To text or call back home, you’ll need VOOM or an international phone plan.
Q: Do I need VOOM to see my daily schedule?
A: No, the Cruise Compass schedule in the app is free. It updates through the ship’s Wi-Fi.
Bottom Line
Think of the Royal Caribbean app as your free cruise planner and VOOM as your optional internet package. You don’t need VOOM to use the app, and for many cruisers, the app alone covers everything they need onboard.
But if you want to stay connected to work, family, or social media, adding VOOM is worth considering.
Charity Bradley 
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