Climbing the ranks of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society is a badge of honor for loyal cruisers—and hitting Diamond status is where things start to feel a little more exclusive.
After racking up 80 cruise points, you’re rewarded with a bunch of shiny perks: free drinks every night, lounge access, priority extras, and discounts that promise to make your cruise feel first-class (even if you’re in an inside cabin).
But while Diamond sounds fancy, there are some downsides. Some of the perks come with fine print, limited availability, or just don’t live up to expectations. And if you’re hoping for true VIP treatment across the board, you might be surprised at what’s not included.
In this article, we’ll break down 18 Royal Caribbean Diamond perks that genuinely deliver, along with 5 that fall short of the hype. Whether you’re close to hitting Diamond or just curious what it really gets you, this guide will help you know what to look forward to—and what to manage your expectations around.
18 Must-Know Perks for Royal Caribbean Diamond Members
Wondering what makes Royal Caribbean’s Diamond tier valuable? These are the top benefits you’ll enjoy:
1. Complimentary Daily Drinks with Bonus Wine Discounts
One of the most talked-about perks of Royal Caribbean’s Diamond status is the four complimentary daily drink vouchers, each covering beverages up to $14 in value. Whether you’re sipping cocktails, mocktails, wine, or a cold beer by the pool, these vouchers make it easy to avoid a surprise bar tab at the end of your cruise.
You can use them at almost any bar onboard or even on Royal Caribbean’s private destinations like CocoCay—though a few exceptions apply, such as Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and the Desserted milkshake bar.
For younger cruisers who are below the legal drinking age—either 18 or 21 depending on the itinerary—these vouchers are automatically converted to non-alcoholic options, allowing them to enjoy sodas, juices, and mocktails with the same daily allowance.
What makes this benefit even more attractive is the built-in wine discount that comes with each voucher. Instead of grabbing a glass, you can apply a drink voucher toward a bottle purchase and unlock 40% off bottles under $100, or 20% off pricier ones.
Just be sure to track how and when your vouchers are used—bartenders sometimes swipe them on a soda or water if you don’t specify. And remember, they reset at 5:00 AM daily. Unused vouchers don’t roll over, so it’s strictly “use it or lose it.”
2. Stay Connected with a Free Day of Wi-Fi
Diamond members get one complimentary day of SURF+STREAM internet for a single device. This is Royal Caribbean’s fastest internet option, allowing you to browse, stream, or video call, and typically costs around $20–$30 per day depending on the ship and sailing.
Additionally, if you don’t want to use your entire free day of internet in one go, you can apply its value toward a longer internet package.
3. Exclusive Lounges, Events, and Skip-the-Line Privileges
Diamond members on Royal Caribbean enjoy a few exclusive access perks that add a subtle touch of VIP treatment. One is the private departure lounge, available on many sailings, offering a quiet place with light refreshments to unwind before disembarkation — a welcome break from the usual last-day rush.
Another perk is the invitation-only Top Tier Event on sailings of five nights or longer (seven on Spectrum of the Seas). Here, you’ll often find drinks, entertainment, and a chance to meet senior officers. Diamond members also get priority waitlist status for things like shore excursions and spa appointments. While it doesn’t guarantee a spot, it can help you snag a booking when demand is high.
4. Crown Lounge Access and Dedicated Loyalty Desk Support
Diamond members also unlock access to the Crown Lounge, a dedicated retreat reserved for those in the upper tiers of Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program. This exclusive space offers a quiet escape from the bustle of the ship, with complimentary snacks, specialty coffee, and a hosted happy hour every evening.
Alongside this, Diamond members also receive priority support through the Crown & Anchor Society Loyalty Desk, where you can get assistance with loyalty-related questions or issues without waiting in the regular guest services line.
5. Discounts on Individual Beverages
In addition to the daily complimentary drinks, Diamond members receive a couple of extra beverage perks. These 50% off coupons (two per sailing) for wine, beer, or soda are great when you want a little extra without dipping into your daily drink vouchers.
On top of that, there’s a one-time 20% discount on a drink of your choice, which can be used any time during the cruise. These discounts don’t combine with other promos and are easy to forget or waste, but they can still stretch your drink budget if used wisely.
6. Spa Service Discount
Diamond members enjoy a 20% discount on spa and salon services, making it easier to indulge in a little pampering while onboard. Whether you’re booking a massage, facial, or manicure, the savings add up quickly. One thing you should keep in mind is that Medi-Spa treatments aren’t included.
7. Behind-the-Scenes Entertainment Experience
If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain of Royal Caribbean’s dazzling stage productions, the Exclusive Backstage Tour is a perk that gives you a peek behind the scenes.
Available on cruises five nights or longer, this tour invites members to explore areas normally off-limits to guests, including a walk through the main theater and backstage spaces. Past cruisers have shared that the experience often includes a Q&A session with dancers or cast members, making it a real treat for anyone curious about life in entertainment at sea.
8. Onboard Laundry and Cleaning Discounts
Keeping your wardrobe fresh while cruising is a little easier with Diamond-level laundry perks. You’ll get $5 off any $25 dry-cleaning or pressing service. And, on sailings five nights or longer, you also receive $10 off the standard $34.99 wash-and-fold laundry bag.
That said, not everyone finds this laundry perk as generous as it sounds. Read on to find out why.
9. Photo Perks and Discounts
Diamond members get a couple of nice photo perks to help capture cruise memories. You’ll get 30% off a single photo, photo package, or photobook purchase. On top of that, you’re entitled to one complimentary photo of your choice, digital or printed, as long as you or someone from your stateroom is in it.
That said, there are a few fine-print caveats that can limit how you use these perks. Read on to find out what they are.
10. Free Coffee with Specialty Dinner
If you’re planning to dine at one of Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants, there’s a little bonus perk to sweeten the deal. When you purchase a specialty dinner, you’ll receive one complimentary non-alcoholic specialty coffee beverage. Just note that Starbucks drinks are excluded, so you’ll need to order from the ship’s standard café offerings.
11. Milkshake Discount at Johnny Rockets
Got a sweet tooth? If your ship has a Johnny Rockets onboard, Diamond members get to indulge in one of the most fun perks—50% off a milkshake. You’ll receive two coupons per sailing, letting you treat yourself to thick, diner-style shakes without paying full price.
12. Casino FreePlay and Bingo Bonuses
For those who enjoy a little onboard gaming, Royal Caribbean’s Diamond perks include a $6 Casino Royale FreePlay credit. If bingo is more your style, you’ll also get six free single Jackpot bingo cards when you purchase a multi-game package. This is a small but useful perk for anyone who likes to dabble in the casino or join the lively bingo sessions during sea days.
13. Priority Seating in the Main Dining Room
Royal Caribbean Diamond members enjoy some extra convenience at mealtimes with priority waitlist seating in the Main Dining Room. While it doesn’t guarantee an immediate table, it does place you ahead of others on the waitlist if you show up without a reservation. This can come in especially handy during peak dining hours when the venue is bustling, giving you a better shot at getting seated sooner without the long wait.
14. In-Room Comforts and Amenities
Royal Caribbean offers Diamond members a few nice in-room extras that help make the cruise feel more comfortable. Bathrobes are available by request through your room attendant, adding a cozy touch to your stay. And when you board, you’ll find two complimentary bottles of water per adult in your stateroom.
On cruises that are five nights or longer, Diamond members also receive a “Chef’s Choice” gift in their stateroom at some point during the sailing. The specific item varies by ship and itinerary, but past cruisers have reported receiving small treats like chocolate-covered strawberries, cheese plates, rice krispy bars, or cookies.
15. Discounted Stateroom Phone Rates
If you ever need to make an outside call from your stateroom, Diamond members receive a discounted rate of $2 per minute. While still pricey, it offers modest savings compared to the regular onboard calling rates of $7.95.
16. Internet and Entertainment Perks for Kids
Kids cruising with Diamond-tier parents on Royal Caribbean don’t get left out when it comes to onboard perks. For starters, children receive the same SURF+STREAM internet discount as their parents. And when it’s time to wind down after a day packed with adventure, there’s a fun entertainment bonus: buy one Hollywood pay-per-view movie in your stateroom, and you’ll get a second one free.
There’s also an arcade credit perk that rewards playtime with savings. Spend $15 on arcade credits and receive $5 back as onboard credit—or go big with a $50 arcade spend and get $25 off. These small but meaningful perks add up to a more enjoyable experience for younger cruisers.
17. Discount on Royal Caribbean Merchandise
If you enjoy picking up Royal Caribbean-branded gear during your cruise, the merchandise discount for Diamond members gives you a nice little perk. You’ll get 15% off when you spend $25 or more on logo items like t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other cruise-themed products.
Just be aware that not everything qualifies. Exclusions include fine jewelry, the Royal Bling collection, trunk show items, one-day specials, and select “best buy” deals. Still, if you were planning to grab a souvenir anyway, this discount can help you save a bit in the process.
18. Ice Cream Discount for Youth
Kids cruising with Royal Caribbean get a sweet little perk: 50% off one scoop of ice cream at the onboard Ice Cream Parlor. This deal is valid twice per sailing and only on ships that actually feature the Ice Cream Parlor—it doesn’t apply at Sugar Beach or other venues. It’s a small bonus, but for families with little ones, it’s a fun way to add extra smiles without spending much.
5 Royal Caribbean Diamond Perks That Don’t Deliver
Diamond status has its perks, but a few things might catch you off guard. Here are 5 Royal Caribbean Diamond letdowns that simply don’t deliver:
1. Laundry Benefit is Small, Especially Compared to Other Cruise Lines
For a loyalty tier as notable as Royal Caribbean’s Diamond status, the laundry perks are surprisingly underwhelming. You get $5 off a $25 dry-clean or press service, and a $10 discount on a $34.99 wash and fold laundry bag. These benefits that barely make a dent, especially on longer sailings where fresh clothes are a must.
Also, discounts are offered just once per cruise and only kick in on sailings that are five nights or longer. Considering how quickly laundry piles up after pool days, shore excursions, and formal nights, it’s a letdown that such a mid-to-high tier doesn’t offer more convenient laundry perks.
Carnival, by contrast, offers much better perks at the same tier. Platinum status includes free wash-and-fold laundry: 2 bags on 3–6 day cruises, 3 on 7–13 days, and 5 on sailings 14+ days. It’s automatic, resets by cruise length, and actually saves loyal guests time and money.
Royal Caribbean’s minor laundry discounts feel like more of a token gesture than a genuine perk, especially given the brand’s premium image and pricing. For frequent cruisers, this makes the laundry benefit one of the more disappointing aspects of Diamond status.
2. No Priority Embarkation or Debarkation
Despite the perks of Royal Caribbean’s Diamond status, it lacks one big benefit: priority embarkation and debarkation. Diamond members aren’t given any preferential treatment when boarding or leaving the ship.
Suite guests (excluding Junior Suites), Pinnacle Club members, and guests who purchase The Key are granted priority boarding — but Diamond members must stick to the same boarding process as everyone else. That means no early boarding lounges, no special lines, and no skipping the crowds.
The situation isn’t much better at the end of the cruise either. While some ships may offer a Diamond departure lounge with light refreshments, this isn’t consistent across the fleet, and there’s no true priority disembarkation built into the tier.
Compare this to Carnival’s Platinum level — which is roughly equivalent in loyalty rank — and the difference becomes clear. Carnival Platinum members receive guaranteed priority embarkation and debarkation, which translates to smoother, faster transitions on both ends of the cruise.
3. Diamond Discounts on Booking Are Minimal
When it comes to booking discounts, Royal Caribbean’s Diamond-tier members technically receive special savings on balcony and suite staterooms. Despite this, many cruisers feel the actual value falls flat. Multiple users across forums like Reddit and Cruise Critic have echoed a similar sentiment: these discounts are rarely better than the line’s ongoing promotions.
As one commenter put it bluntly, “It’s not worth chasing status just for discounts… they’re not significant.” Another added, “Always a sale better than the C&A discount,” a sentiment shared by many who find the “perk” isn’t worth using over public offers.
That’s not to say the Diamond discount is always useless—some cruisers have managed to save a bit more, depending on the timing. One Cruise Critic user reported getting $225 off a 7-day cruise booked six months in advance through their Diamond rate, which beat the promo pricing at the time.
But that seems to be more the exception than the rule. The inconsistency and limited advantage of this benefit make it one of the more disappointing aspects of Diamond status, especially for those who hoped for more valuable perks on the booking side of things.
4. Crown Lounge Access is Not Guaranteed
The Crown Lounge is one of the best perks for Diamond-tier guests, offering a private space with complimentary bites and evening drinks. But there are some important caveats buried in the fine print.
Access is not always guaranteed—even for Diamond members. On sailings with a high number of elite guests, such as charters, repositionings, inaugurals, or President’s Cruises, Royal Caribbean may limit or even remove lounge access altogether.
5. Photo Perk Falls Flat: Major Exclusions Limit the Value
The Diamond-tier photo perk sounds generous at first glance: 30% off a photo package or photobook, plus one complimentary printed or digital photo per sailing. But a closer look reveals several disappointing restrictions that seriously limit its usefulness.
The discount only applies to a single transaction and can’t be combined with other onboard promotions. It also excludes some of the most sought-after photo experiences like Private Studio sessions, group portraits, and wedding packages.
The free photo offer comes with its own conditions too, including the requirement that the loyalty member or someone in their stateroom be in the photo. Youth members aren’t eligible for any photo perks at all, making this benefit less valuable for families cruising with kids.
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