Will kids face new rules on Royal Caribbean cruises? CEO shares insights

Could new rules be implemented for kids aboard Royal Caribbean ships?

CEO Michael Bayley raised this issue last week during a preview event for the company’s latest vessel, Utopia of the Seas.

At the event, attended by travel professionals and other guests, Bayley hinted at the possibility of adding more restrictions for children, beyond the current curfew for those aged 17 and under, as reported by media outlets present.

Currently, the curfew mandates that younger cruisers must return to their cabins by 1 a.m. every night.

"It might be time to reconsider [the curfew]. I believe the idea of curfews in certain bars is a great suggestion," Bayley commented, as reported by Royal Caribbean Blog.

Bayley made these remarks in response to a travel adviser’s concern that unruly children on Royal Caribbean ships were driving away customers. The agent proposed either expanding adult-only zones on the ships or implementing stricter curfews for bars, according to Royal Caribbean Blog.

The comment was also covered by Travel Pulse and Cruise Mummy.

The reports mentioned that Royal Caribbean executives at the Utopia of the Seas preview event discussed the possibility of enforcing an earlier curfew, particularly for areas catering to adults like bars and lounges.

Bayley explained that the company had been receiving an increasing number of complaints about children in public spaces, prompting the line to reconsider its curfew policies, as noted by Royal Caribbean Blog.

In recent years, Royal Caribbean has established itself as the top cruise brand for families, with ships designed to cater to family needs. These vessels feature a variety of amenities, including children's play areas, family-friendly pools, waterslides, and attractions like bumper car arenas and ice skating rinks.

The line's emphasis on family-oriented, family-owned entertainment has made its ships a popular choice for families traveling with children.