Is Royal Caribbean Diamond Status Worth It? Here’s What You Get

When I hit Diamond status with Royal Caribbean, I’ll admit I was excited. After sailing my way up the Crown & Anchor Society tiers, I thought I was finally unlocking a new level of cruising. Some of the perks genuinely made a difference. Others… felt more like a pat on the back than a real reward.

For those unfamiliar, Diamond status is a loyalty tier you reach after earning 80 cruise points, roughly equivalent to 40 nights at sea in a standard stateroom. It’s the level where Royal Caribbean starts offering more tangible benefits.

But is it really worth chasing Diamond status? In this article, I’ll break down what you get, what actually feels valuable, and what surprised me. Plus, I’ll share thoughts from other cruisers who’ve been there too, because not everyone sees it the same way.

The Diamond Perks That Genuinely Deliver

So, what do you actually get when you hit Diamond? Let’s start with the perks that genuinely made a difference to my cruising experience—the ones I’d happily keep using again and again.

1. Free Drinks (Every Night!)

For me, this is hands down the best perk of Diamond status. You get four free drinks per day, and yes—they’re proper drinks. Cocktails, wine, beer, mocktails, sodas… even a Bailey’s on ice if that’s your thing. As long as it’s under $14, it’s covered.

You can use these vouchers at almost any bar onboard, from the pool deck to the theatre, and even on Royal Caribbean’s private islands like CocoCay. The main exceptions are Starbucks, the Bionic Bar, and a few speciality dessert spots—but otherwise, it’s pretty flexible.

Compared to buying a drink package (which can cost £60+ per day), this perk is a game-changer. If you’re not a heavy drinker but like the option of a cocktail in the evening and a mocktail or coffee during the day, the vouchers are more than enough. Just be sure to tell the bartender you want to use a voucher—otherwise, they might charge it to your room by default.

It’s also important to know that the drinks don’t roll over—they reset at 5am each day, so it’s very much a “use it or lose it” situation. If you forget or skip a day, those vouchers are gone.

And if four drinks a day still isn’t quite enough, you also get a couple of extra beverage discounts:

• Two 50% off coupons for wine, beer, or soda per sailing.
• A one-time 20% discount on any drink of your choice.

They’re easy to overlook, especially if you’re already using the vouchers, but they’re great for treating yourself to something a bit fancier without paying full price. Just remember—they can’t be combined with other deals.

Related reading: How to Decide If a Royal Caribbean Drink Package is Right for You

2. The Crown Lounge

The Crown Lounge can feel like a hidden gem when it’s not packed. On some cruises, I’ve found it to be the perfect retreat: quiet, cosy, with proper coffee and a few nibbles to tide you over between meals. Other times, especially on sailings with many Diamond members, it’s standing room only and not quite the relaxing escape you hoped for.

Typically, the lounge offers continental breakfast, self-serve coffee machines, and evening hors d’oeuvres and drinks during the daily happy hour. There’s often a dedicated host who can help with loyalty-related queries too. It’s a lovely space when it works, but worth knowing that access isn’t guaranteed on every sailing, especially on special or overcrowded itineraries.

3. Wi-Fi Day Pass

One complimentary day of Wi-Fi might not sound like much, but it’s surprisingly useful if you’re selective about when you use it. I’ve used mine to check emails, post a flurry of cruise photos to social media, and even stream a show while winding down in the evening. The connection (SURF + STREAM) is strong enough for video calls too, which is impressive at sea.

If you plan to stay connected for the whole cruise, you can also use the value of the free day toward a longer internet package, which helps soften the blow of Royal’s often pricey Wi-Fi plans. It’s not unlimited internet, but it’s a great freebie if you time it right.

4. Internet and Entertainment Perks for Kids

Royal Caribbean hasn’t forgotten the younger cruisers. If you’re travelling with children, you’ll find a few kid-specific Diamond perks that can make things smoother (and cheaper) onboard.

Kids get access to the same SURF+STREAM internet discount, which is helpful if they want to message friends or watch YouTube. In your stateroom, there’s a buy-one-get-one-free offer on Hollywood pay-per-view movies – perfect for winding down after a busy sea day.

There’s also a clever little arcade bonus: spend $15 and get $5 back, or spend $50 and get $25 back. If your child loves games (and you’re trying to stretch your budget), these savings do add up.

5. Ice Cream Discount for Youth

This one’s small, but it’s a sweet surprise for kids—50% off one scoop of ice cream at the onboard Ice Cream Parlor, available twice per sailing. Not every ship has the Parlor, but if yours does, it’s a fun way to treat your little one without handing over another $5 each time.

It doesn’t apply at Sugar Beach or other venues, but when it’s available, it’s a simple perk that helps create a few extra smiles without costing much.

6. Milkshake & Coffee Perks

This is one of those perks that feels small but thoughtful. Diamond members get 50% off two milkshakes at Johnny Rockets, which is perfect if you’re cruising with kids, or just fancy a treat. Thick, diner-style shakes after a day in the sun? Yes, please.

You also get a free non-alcoholic specialty coffee when you dine at a specialty restaurant. It’s a nice way to end a meal, especially if you’re skipping dessert but still want something indulgent. Just note that it doesn’t apply to Starbucks, so you’ll need to order from the ship’s own café.

7. Backstage Tour

The backstage tour is one of those perks that feels a bit special, mainly because it’s something most cruisers never get to see. I joined one on a 7-night cruise, and it gave us a glimpse into the production side of the ship’s entertainment. We got to walk behind the main theatre stage, see the costume racks, props, and lighting setup, and even chat briefly with a couple of the cast members.

It’s not a long tour, but it’s a great little bonus if you’re even slightly curious about how the shows come together. Royal Caribbean puts a lot into their entertainment, and seeing the mechanics behind the magic makes you appreciate the performances even more.

8. Spa Service Discount

If you like a bit of pampering at sea, this one’s for you. Diamond members receive 20% off spa and salon services, which can make that massage or facial feel a little more justifiable. Whether it’s a sea day treat or part of your pre-formal night routine, the savings do add up if you were planning to book anyway.

One thing to note: Medi-Spa treatments are excluded, so the discount does not apply to more advanced or cosmetic procedures.

9. Onboard Laundry and Cleaning Discounts

Keeping clothes fresh mid-cruise is easier with Diamond-level laundry perks. You’ll get $5 off any $25 dry-cleaning or pressing service, and on cruises five nights or longer, you’ll also receive $10 off the standard $34.99 wash-and-fold laundry bag.

It’s not a huge discount, but it can make a practical difference if you’re on a longer sailing or trying to pack light. Just don’t expect anything close to free laundry unless you reach higher tiers or switch cruise lines.

10. Discount on Royal Caribbean Merchandise

If you like to bring home a souvenir or two, this is a small but welcome perk. Diamond members get 15% off Royal Caribbean-branded merchandise when spending $25 or more. Think t-shirts, tote bags, mugs, and other logo gear you’ll spot in the onboard shops.

There are some exclusions to watch for, including fine jewellery, Royal Bling items, one-day specials, and certain “best buy” deals. Still, if you were eyeing up something from the shop anyway, it’s a nice way to save a few dollars.

11. Casino and Bingo Bonuses

I’m not a big gambler, but I must admit that the $6 Casino FreePlay is a fun little perk. It’s not going to win you a jackpot, but it’s enough to play a few spins or rounds without dipping into your own funds. If you’re already planning a flutter in Casino Royale, it’s basically free money.

There’s also a bingo bonus: when you buy a multi-game package, you get six extra jackpot cards thrown in. I’ve only played bingo once or twice, but the room is always lively and surprisingly competitive. For casual players like me, it’s a small but welcome extra that adds a bit of fun to a sea day.

Related reading: How Playing at Royal Caribbean’s Casino Could Land You a Free Cruise

12. Photo Freebie and Discount

Diamond members get one free photo per cruise, plus 30% off a photo package, photobook, or additional prints. It’s a lovely idea, especially if you’ve had a formal night or a great shot with the ship in the background.

My personal tip? Don’t leave it too late. On one cruise, my friend forgot to claim hers until the last morning, and by the time I got to the photo area, the queues were long and the photo I wanted had already been archived. Lesson learned.

Also, be aware of the fine print (more on this below).

13. Room Extras (Water, Robes, Gifts)

These aren’t headline perks, but they do add a little something extra to your stay. Diamond members receive two complimentary bottles of water per adult in the stateroom, which is handy for excursions or just keeping hydrated onboard without constantly refilling at the buffet.

You can also request bathrobes from your room attendant—soft, comfortable, and great for lounging on the balcony (or just feeling a bit fancy in an inside cabin). On cruises five nights or longer, you’ll usually receive a small “Chef’s Choice” gift too.

14. Priority Seating in the Main Dining Room

This perk doesn’t shout for attention, but it can be a real time-saver, especially on busy sailings. Diamond members receive priority waitlist seating in the Main Dining Room. It doesn’t guarantee you a table on arrival, but it does bump you up the list if you’re walking in without a reservation.

I’ve used this a couple of times when we decided to skip the buffet last minute, and while it didn’t instantly get us seated, we definitely waited less than others. If you like a bit of flexibility at dinner time, this is a quiet little win.

15. Exclusive Lounges, Events, and Skip-the-Line Privileges

One of the quieter benefits of Diamond status is access to exclusive spaces and events that make your cruise feel just a bit more elevated. On many sailings, there’s a private departure lounge with light refreshments and a peaceful atmosphere—ideal for avoiding the chaos of disembarkation day.

There’s also the invitation-only Top Tier Event on cruises of five nights or longer (seven on Spectrum), where you can enjoy drinks, a bit of entertainment, and sometimes a chat with senior officers. It’s not wildly flashy but a thoughtful nod to loyal guests.

You’ll also get priority waitlist status for things like shore excursions and spa appointments. It won’t guarantee you a spot, but I’ve found it helpful when trying to book popular experiences last-minute.

Perks That Sound Better Than They Are

Not everything lives up to the hype, though. Some Diamond perks sound impressive, but fall a bit flat once you’re onboard.

1. Laundry Discount is Bare Minimum

This one honestly feels a bit stingy. While it’s nice that Royal Caribbean offers a laundry discount at Diamond level, it’s not exactly generous. You get $5 off a $25 dry-cleaning or pressing service, and $10 off a wash-and-fold bag, but only on cruises five nights or longer.

Compare that to other cruise lines like Carnival, which gives higher-tier guests completely free bags of laundry depending on the cruise length. That feels like a real perk. Royal’s offering? More of a polite nod.

2. No Priority Embarkation or Debarkation

This one stings because it feels like the kind of perk Diamond should include. But no, despite the loyalty status, you still queue up with everyone else when it’s time to board or leave the ship.

I found this out the hard way on a sailing from Southampton. There I was, proudly clutching my Diamond card, only to join the same long line as first-time cruisers.

Suite guests and Pinnacle members get priority. Even guests who’ve paid for “The Key” get it. But Diamond? Not so much. It’s one of the more noticeable absences in the perks list, especially when other lines offer priority boarding as standard at this tier.

3. Discounts on Cruise Fares Are Hit or Miss

Technically, Diamond members get special rates on balcony and suite staterooms, but these discounts are hit or miss. I’ve compared prices a few times, and more often than not, the public sale price has come out cheaper than the loyalty offer.

There have been exceptions. On one sailing, I did manage to save a bit by using the Diamond rate, but it’s rare. Most of the time, it’s worth checking both options before booking, because the big sales Royal runs throughout the year usually beat the built-in discount. It’s a perk that sounds good on paper but doesn’t often translate into real savings.

4. Lounge Access Isn’t Always a Guarantee

The Crown Lounge is one of Diamond’s headline perks, but here’s the catch: access isn’t guaranteed. Royal Caribbean can restrict or remove access for Diamond members altogether on cruises packed with high-tier loyalty guests (like repositionings, inaugurals, or President’s Cruises).

I haven’t been turned away outright, but I’ve definitely walked in to find it so crowded there wasn’t a single seat left, not quite the relaxing retreat it’s meant to be. It’s frustrating when you’ve looked forward to a quiet coffee or evening canapé, only to feel like you’re in a busy buffet queue. For something that’s meant to feel exclusive, it can sometimes fall short.

5. Photo Perk Limitations

At first glance, the free photo perk sounds like a nice souvenir. One complimentary print or digital photo per cruise? Lovely. Until you realise just how many exclusions apply.

On one cruise, I picked a great shot from formal night, only to be told it wasn’t eligible because it was part of a premium package.

It’s still a nice bonus if you manage to find a photo that qualifies, but don’t be surprised if the one you’ve fallen in love with doesn’t make the cut.

What Diamond Doesn’t Get You

As much as Diamond status gives you, there are some things it definitely doesn’t. And if you’re expecting a full VIP experience, it’s worth knowing what’s not included.

• No free room upgrades. Unless you get really lucky (and I mean really lucky), don’t expect to be bumped up to a balcony or suite. Your stateroom is what you booked.
• No concierge lounge access. That’s reserved for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members—not Diamond or even Diamond Plus. So if you were hoping for that ultra-exclusive space with concierge service, it’s a no-go.
• No priority tender tickets or special treatment when booking shore excursions. You’ll still need to queue or wait your turn, just like everyone else.
• No early boarding perks. As mentioned earlier, you’re boarding with the general crowd—unless you’ve booked a suite or paid for The Key.

Diamond comes with plenty of useful extras, but it stops short of the true “VIP” experience.

Is It Worth It?

So, was it worth aiming for Diamond? Honestly—yes. But only because I didn’t chase it just for the perks. I got there naturally through cruises I was already planning to take, and when those benefits kicked in, it felt like a genuine upgrade.

Diamond is especially great for people who cruise regularly, enjoy a drink or two each day, or travel as a couple, because those drink vouchers alone can save you a small fortune. It’s also good if you’re someone who likes a few extra comforts without splashing out on a suite.

But if you’re travelling with kids, don’t drink, or only cruise occasionally, the value starts to fade a bit. Some perks, like lounge access or casino bonuses, might not mean much, and the savings aren’t always enough to justify going out of your way to reach this tier.

At the time of writing, I’ve now got 32 cruise points, which puts me at Diamond, and yes—I am eyeing up that next level. Not because I need it, but because if I’m cruising anyway, I might as well enjoy the ride with a few more perks thrown in.

What Other Diamond Members Are Saying

Of course, my take isn’t the only one that matters. I’ve seen plenty of comments from fellow cruisers across forums and groups, and there’s a clear trend: most people aren’t chasing Diamond status just for the perks, but once they have it, they enjoy it.

Here’s what a few experienced cruisers had to say:

“I would never ‘chase’ benefits but I have them and I certainly enjoy the drink vouchers. I drink mainly water anyway so for a pool drink and evening cocktails it is perfect.”

This seems to be the sweet spot for many: not going out of your way to earn status, but making the most of it once you’re there.

“I cruise because I love the way of travelling—the status is a very nice upgrade, but I don’t chase points. We mostly cruise inside and just enjoy the benefits of D+.”

Plenty of people cruise in inside cabins and still find real value in the benefits, even without spending big.

“At Diamond level, the perks kick in… balcony discount, 4 free drinks a day, access to Crown Lounge, one free day internet. At Diamond +, the perks just get better!”

“A free photo, 1 day of wifi, and 4 drinks a day. Worth it to me—and the higher you go the more rewards. I get 25% off as a solo D+ cruiser. Totally worth it.”

There’s definitely a sense that Diamond is when the good stuff starts, but the value only increases as you move into Diamond Plus and Pinnacle levels.

That said, not everyone uses all the perks:

“We’re Diamond Plus and don’t drink, so that wasn’t an incentive for us, but we do use the water and internet, and enjoy the Crown Lounge for coffee.”

And for some, there’s a reminder not to fall into the trap of chasing perks at the cost of good value:

“Those who only cruise where they have higher tiered status are overpaying for their cruise vacations big time.”

Final Word

Some of the Diamond perks genuinely enhance the cruise experience, like the free drinks, Crown Lounge access, and that little boost of feeling appreciated as a loyal guest. But others? They feel more like token gestures, nice to have but hardly game-changing.

My honest advice? Don’t chase Diamond just for the benefits. Cruise because you love it, because it fits your lifestyle, and because being at sea brings you joy. The perks should be a bonus, not the reason you book the trip.

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