Royal Caribbean is rolling out a pair of family-friendly promotions starting July 31, 2026 that could trim hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars off a cruise vacation. The deals run through a September 14, 2026 booking deadline and cover sailings departing between August 26, 2026 and August 20, 2027.
The first offer is a traditional Kids Sail Free promotion, waiving cruise fare for guests 12 and under when they share a cabin with two full-fare-paying adults. The second — and newer — offer is a Free 3rd and 4th Guests promotion that has no age restriction, meaning teenagers, adult children, or even a second couple sharing a cabin can all qualify for free cruise fare as the third and fourth guests.
What makes this round of deals stand out is the inclusion of summer 2027 sailings. Royal Caribbean's family promotions typically carry summer blackout dates, leaving school-break travelers out in the cold. This time, summer departures are eligible — with the notable exception of Alaska Cruise Tours. Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, and a handful of specific sailings are still blacked out, so families should review the full list before booking.
It's worth noting that "free" applies only to the cruise fare itself. Taxes, port fees, and daily gratuities (currently $18.50 per guest, per day for standard staterooms) still apply. The promotions can be stacked with onboard credit offers, Crown & Anchor Society discounts, military and senior discounts, and other eligible perks. Residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and select Caribbean countries qualify.
Full details on blackout dates and eligibility requirements were reported by Royal Caribbean Blog.
