Key Takeaways
- Book in the app. Open the Royal app on embarkation day and reserve your preferred AquaDome and ice show times first. Many main theater productions also list reservations in the app.
- Pick early or late. First and last seatings are easiest to land. Use dinner on the opposite side of the evening.
- Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early for best seats. Doors often close a few minutes before showtime.
- Use standby lines. If reservations are gone, line up 20 to 30 minutes before showtime. Standby guests usually fill remaining seats shortly before curtain.
- One big show per night. Do one headliner, then add a lounge act or live music set.
Niko’s Note 🐾 Screenshot your reservations. Wi Fi can wobble when everyone opens the app at once.
How to Reserve Seats in the Royal App
- Connect to ship Wi Fi and open the Royal app.
- Tap Things To Do then Shows.
- Choose your show and tap Reserve. Pick guests and confirm.
- If your first choice is full, grab an alternate time and try standby for the original.
- Check the app each morning for added performances.
App help: Royal App overview
What to See First on Star
- AquaDome headliner Signature high dive and acrobatics in a dramatic glass dome. Expect water effects, aerial work, and a cinematic score. Reserve early. Overview: AquaDome.
- Absolute Zero ice show Big scale skating in the round with creative lighting. Public skate sessions also appear on some sea days. Overview: Absolute Zero.
- Royal Theater productions Broadway style or original productions with live vocals and orchestra. If you love musicals, save one night for the theater. Overview: Royal Theater.
What To Skip If You Are Short On Time
- A repeat of the same headliner. Use that slot for a lounge act or live music set instead.
- Long pre show lines for a second viewing. Go standby near curtain or try a late performance.
- Back to back major shows without a meal break. Eat before curtain and keep a snack for after.
Sample One Week Show Plan
Adjust to your actual sailing and port days. Swap nights as needed.
| Night | 6:30 to 7:30 | 8:30 to 9:45 | 10:15 to late |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Dinner near Surfside or Park Café | Royal Theater show | Royal Promenade music set |
| Day 2 | AquaDome reservation | Dessert at Pearl Café | Pub set or piano bar |
| Day 3 | Port day… early dinner | Ice show at Absolute Zero | Stroll Central Park |
| Day 4 | CocoCay day… early Pearl Café snack | Second theater production | Late Sorrento’s slice |
| Day 5 | Specialty dinner | AquaDome second company or added performance | Silent disco |
| Day 6 | Family early show | If you have children, they can to to Adventure Ocean | Adults lounge act |
| Day 7 | Farewell music set | Pack and promenade | Early night |
Tip Leave 30 minutes to cross the ship. AquaDome and Absolute Zero are in different zones.
Arrival and Seating Tips
- Arrive early for central sections and aisle seats.
- Split the party. Have one adult find seats while the other grabs drinks or takes kids to the restroom.
- Accessibility. Ask ushers for wheelchair or limited mobility seating. Arrive early for best options.
- Kids. Sit on aisle ends for quick exits. Pack quiet snacks and a light layer.
- Photos. Follow crew instructions. Flash is usually not allowed.
Food Pairings That Keep the Night Smooth
- Before curtain Pearl Café grab and go or a quick plate at AquaDome Market.
- After curtain Sorrento’s for a hot slice, then a cookie from Pearl Café for the elevator ride.
- Sea days Book one specialty dinner on a non show night.
Links
Pearl Café: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-dining/pearl-cafe
AquaDome Market: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-dining/aquadome-market
Sorrento’s Pizza: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-dining/sorrentos-pizza
With Kids and Teens
- Register early at Adventure Ocean and let teens check Social 020. If a show loses their attention, step out and try a live music set instead.
- Noise and light. Ice shows can be colder and louder. Bring a light layer and consider ear protection for toddlers.
- Strollers. Use elevators and arrive early for accessible seating.
FAQ
Do I need a reservation for every show Many headliners require reservations in the app. Some lounge acts are first come only. Check the daily schedule.
How early should I arrive Plan 20 to 30 minutes before curtain for better seat choices.
Can I join a standby line without a reservation Yes. Standby guests are seated shortly before curtain if there are unclaimed seats.
Are shows suitable for kids Most main productions are family friendly. The app lists age guidance when needed.
What if I miss my reserved time Try another performance or join standby for the same show later in the cruise.
Sources
- Royal app features and how reservations work: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/experience/royal-app
- AquaDome neighborhood and show overview: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-activities/aquadome
- Absolute Zero ice arena overview: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-activities/absolute-zero
- Royal Theater overview: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-activities/royal-theater
