Cruising with a baby or toddler can be an amazing experience, but it also comes with plenty of logistics, like figuring out whether you can bring a stroller onboard. The good news: yes, strollers are allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. But before you start packing, there are some important details and practical tips that every parent should know.
Are Strollers Allowed on Royal Caribbean?
✅ Yes, you can bring a stroller. Royal Caribbean does not provide them, so if you want one, you’ll need to bring your own. The only rule is that strollers must be stored in your stateroom when not in use. You can’t leave them parked in hallways or public spaces because those areas must stay clear for safety.
Best Stroller Options for a Cruise
Cruise hallways are narrow, elevators can get crowded, and staterooms aren’t spacious. That’s why the best stroller to bring is:
- Lightweight and compact (umbrella or travel strollers work best).
- Easy to fold quickly for getting in and out of elevators.
- Small enough to store under the bed or tucked behind a curtain in your cabin.
Double strollers or large jogging strollers can work but may be challenging in tight corridors. If you need a double, choose one that folds flat and is easy to maneuver.
Strollers at Perfect Day at CocoCay
If your itinerary includes Perfect Day at CocoCay, you don’t necessarily need to bring your stroller off the ship. Royal Caribbean provides complimentary beach strollers on the island, available first-come, first-served. They’re especially handy for toddlers when you’re exploring the beaches and pathways.
Storage Tips
Inside your cabin, space is at a premium. Most parents fold the stroller and:
- Slide it under the bed.
- Lean it behind the blackout curtain.
- Tuck it in the corner of the cabin.
This keeps it out of the way and ready when you need it.
FAQs About Strollers and Cruising with Kids
Can I bring a stroller into the dining room?
Yes, but space is limited. Staff will usually help you find a place to park it folded, near a wall or corner, but don’t block aisles.
Is a stroller better than a baby carrier onboard?
Both are useful. A stroller is great for naps and moving through big spaces like the promenade. A carrier is better for quick trips and excursions where strollers are harder to use.
Do I need to bring snacks for my toddler?
Yes. While ships have plenty of food, it’s not always served when your child needs it. Pack sealed, pre-packaged snacks like pouches, crackers, or bars. Fresh foods like fruit or sandwiches generally can’t be taken off the ship in port.
Will my stateroom have a fridge for bottles or milk?
Most cabins don’t have true refrigerators, just beverage coolers. They’ll keep drinks cool but not cold enough for milk or formula. Ask your stateroom attendant for ice, and they’ll happily keep your ice bucket full.
Can I request a crib or pack ’n play?
Yes, Royal Caribbean provides cribs or pack ’n plays free of charge. Request one when you book, or ask your room steward on embarkation day.
Are high chairs available?
Yes, high chairs are available in dining venues. Just let your server know.
What about baby supplies like diapers or wipes?
You’ll need to bring your own. Ships don’t sell much in the way of baby essentials, so pack plenty for the entire cruise.
How Old Does a Baby Have to Be to Cruise on Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean does allow infants onboard, but the rules depend on the itinerary.
- Regular Cruises (most sailings):
Babies must be at least 6 months old on the day of embarkation. - Longer Cruises with More Sea Days:
For **transatlantic, transpacific, Hawaii sailings, South America cruises, and any voyage with 3 or more consecutive sea days, the minimum age is 12 months.
The reasoning is safety, on itineraries where the ship is far from port for multiple days, medical care is less accessible, so Royal Caribbean sets a higher age requirement.
Related Tips for Parents
- Proof of age required: You’ll need to show a passport or birth certificate at check-in.
- No exceptions: Even if your baby is just a few days short of the cutoff, Royal Caribbean will not allow boarding.
- Book early, check the rules: Make sure your child meets the age requirement for the specific itinerary before booking.
Final Tips for Cruising with Kids
- Bring a lightweight stroller you can manage in small spaces.
- Pack snacks and keep them sealed for easy travel.
- Remember, the cabin cooler is not a fridge. Ask your steward for ice if you need to keep bottles cold.
- Request cribs, high chairs, and distilled water (for formula) in advance.
- Take advantage of CocoCay’s complimentary beach strollers instead of hauling yours ashore.
Bottom Line
You can absolutely bring a stroller on a Royal Caribbean cruise, and if you’re sailing with a baby or toddler, it’s one of the most useful things you’ll pack. Just choose a compact model, store it in your cabin, and pair it with a few family travel hacks to make your cruise as stress-free as possible.
Want to feel prepared for your cruise?
I pulled the most important Royal Caribbean prep steps into a printable checklist bundle that walks you through what to do before you leave, what to bring, how embarkation works, and what to expect on disembarkation day—so you’re prepared instead of guessing.
Products I Use and Recommend
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Charity Bradley 🌺 
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