Luggage in the Elevator: Are You Breaking Cruise Etiquette on Debarkation Day?

We've all been there on the final morning of a fantastic cruise. You're trying to head down to the gangway, but the elevators are packed to the brim. A recent online debate has sparked a conversation about whether it's actually rude to bring your bags into a crowded elevator on departure day.

According to a story highlighted by Cruise Hive, a first-time Royal Caribbean cruiser was scoffed at by a fellow passenger for bringing luggage into an elevator. The guest had opted for self-assist debarkation to get off the ship quickly and needed to travel from Deck 14 down to Deck 5. Naturally, they took the elevator, which led to some grumbling from others. Fortunately, the online community quickly reassured them that there's absolutely no rule against bringing your bags in. It's common sense that you can't carry heavy suitcases down nine flights of stairs.

What This Means for Casino Royale Players

If you're a regular in the Casino Royale program, you know that managing your time on departure morning is key. Whether you're trying to catch an early flight or just want to get home after a long week of gaming, here's how this elevator debate affects your cruise strategy:

• Timing Your Departure: If you've been staying up late trying to hit that final jackpot on the slot machines, you probably aren't waking up at the crack of dawn. If you're leaving your cabin during peak hours (usually between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM), expect the elevators to be packed. If you're carrying your own bags, try to leave either very early or wait until the final call to avoid the crowd.
• Leveraging Your Tier Status: High-tier players, like Signature and Masters members, often get priority departure perks. If you don't want to wrestle with your bags in a crowded elevator, use the luggage tags provided by the ship and let the crew handle the heavy lifting. You'll be able to walk down to the gangway bag-free.
• Navigating Smart Elevators: If you're sailing on newer Royal Caribbean ships like Icon of the Seas, you'll encounter smart destination elevators. These require you to select your deck on a panel outside before boarding. It's even more important to be polite here, as you can't just squeeze into the first open elevator that arrives—you have to wait for your assigned car.
• Keep It Courteous: If you must use the elevator with your luggage, try to tuck your bags into a corner or stack them to save space. It's a small gesture, but it goes a long way in keeping the peace on a hectic morning.

The Final Word

Don't let anyone make you feel bad for using the elevator with your luggage. It's your vacation, and you've earned those Casino Royale perks. Just pack smart, plan your timing, and you'll have a smooth exit from the ship.