Behind the Scenes, Blackjack, and Guiness World Record, Oh my!

Nothing distracts me more from work than a Backstreet cruise email! Oh boy! We have 3 new items to discuss! Below is the email in case you missed it...

Hello cruisers…only two more weeks until we are all sailing away on the Brilliance of the Seas.  We have just a few more items up for business:

BSB:  Behind the Scenes:
You know those burning questions you always wanted to ask the boys?
Well, here is your chance!
We're having a Q & A session with the BSB – so bring em on.
We will be randomly selecting among your questions, so submit them here by May 2nd

Blackjack Tournament:
Ever dream of playing blackjack on the High Seas?
Well, here is your chance.
On Friday, May 13th, AJ is hosting his first European Blackjack Tournament.
For just $25 dollars (payable to the casino host on-board), you can have a chance to play for a cash prize and, more importantly, the chance of beating Mr. McLean himself
The top six chip winners from the qualifying rounds (starting in the casino at 10am) will test their skills in the grand finale.

The three players with the most chips will win cash prizes. 

Submit your name, email address and dining time below. We will randomly select among all entries. You will receive a schedule with your table time in advance.

Please submit your request HERE May 2nd
Good luck!

Just to be Close to you – A Guinness Book of World Records Attempt!
Most Nationalities in a Jacuzzi:

We have so many countries represented in our Backstreet family – over 47 on the cruise alone.  How could we not try to beat the world record for the most nationalities in a Jacuzzi?  However, we need your help.

We need one volunteer from each country on board to get in the hot tub with the BSB!

If you would like the chance to get wet and possibly be a world record holder – please sign up here!  We will randomly select one participant from each nation.

** If selected, you must present a valid passport for the nation you are representing **

My Take
Lots to process!

BSB Behind the Scenes
Well, it looks like this event isn't quite what I had initially anticipated. I was hoping for the boys to share some of the behind the scenes stuff we normally don't get to hear a lot about. Slightly disappointed this isn't the case. Nonetheless, I'm always a fan of the Q&A so the disappointment is short lived. I just submitted my question, so fingers crossed!!

Blackjack Tournament
I also signed up for the blackjack tournament! I always figure there's no harm in signing up and trying. For $25 you get the chance to play with a Backstreet Boy. Totally worth it in my opinion. I encourage everyone to give it a shot, even if you're not a big blackjack player. The other new piece of info we got today is that AJ will be hosting it this year! Woohoo!

Just to be Close to you - A Guinness Book of World Records
Well this is definitely not what I thought it would be, thats for sure! It sounds like a fun concept, but as an American, I feel at a slight disadvantage. Obviously depending on what country you're from, your odds of participating are going to be much higher or lower. I also question if they may not even pick an American if the Backstreet Boy will fill that slot. Hopefully thats not the case, but if they're trying to break a world record, I wouldn't doubt it. It'd just be slightly upsetting knowing I have a 0% chance instead of a .05% chance. Geez, maybe I should look into getting a passport from like Cameroon or something :P Nonetheless, I threw my name in the hat for this one too and we shall see what happens!

Good luck to everyone entering all the contests!!

9 Things I Wished I Knew Before Cruising

After 4 Backstreet Boys cruises under my belt, I'd like to think I've honed my Backstreet cruising knowledge. Too bad that's not a skill I can put on my resume! The good news is, I can share my relatively useless knowledge with my lovely readers. So looking back, I put together a list of things that I wish I knew before I embarked on my first:

1. I think I was an hour into Cruise #1 when I realized my camera wasn't going to cut it. Many fans like to use their phones for pictures, in fact, I may be the oddball who still uses a point-and-shoot camera. But if you do like taking pictures and videos as much as I do, I'd suggest investing in a decent camera and LOTS of memory. You don't want to feel limited by not bringing enough, and its expensive on the ship (yes i learned the hard way)
   
   
2. It's going to be an emotional roller coaster. I went into my first cruise with super high spirits and tons of excitement. It's safe to say on every cruise I've shed tears in some capacity or another (Try not to judge me too much!) Sometimes its happy tears, sometimes its just out of sheer exhaustion, and other times it's because I set myself up for disappointment with unrealistic expectations. Overtime I've learned to just feel all feels!
   
   
   
   
   
3. One of the most exciting things I discovered going on a Backstreet cruise is that I'm not alone!! There are other fans just like me who still love the Backstreet Boys. That was super refreshing for me to experience.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Don't overdo it before or after the cruise. One year I went to Disney World before the cruise and while I had a blast, I will never do that again! I've learned to build in relaxation days before AND after the cruise. Whenever possible, I try to take an extra day off work on both ends of the cruise because I find before a Backstreet cruise I'm usually running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Having a day or two solely dedicated to taking care of those last minute things is so helpful! After the cruise, I also find I need a day to decompress and literally just process everything.
   
   
   
   
   
5. There are really not many downsides to a Backstreet cruise. One of the very few negatives of a BSB cruise is that they are addicting. Once you do it, it's hard to stop! At least I haven't been able to break the habit...not that I really want to ;)
   
   
   
   
   
6. If you thought post-concert depression is bad, post-cruise depression is waaaaay worse. Sitting in that airport terminal on the way home is such a weird feeling because you're still riding off the high of the trip, but also realizing that the trip of a lifetime has come to an end. What I've done to help ease the PCD is extend my trip and spend an extra couple of days with friends. It's so nice to have the support of each other and tell each all all the stories over and over (even though they were there with you for those stories!)
   
   
   
   
   
7. This one could just be me, but I almost have as much fun planning and talking about the cruise as I do on the cruise. I really enjoy chatting with other fans, speculating, getting costumes and door decorations ready. I really have learned to enjoy the build-up of getting ready for the cruise because lets face it, those 4 days with the boys go by a heck of a lot quicker than the 350+ we had to wait for it to get here.
   
   
   
   
   
8. Given the nature of a Backstreet cruise, the green-eyed monster can and will rear its ugly head. There's no doubt it's tough to watch other fans get picked for something you wanted so badly; or get special interactions that "should've been yours." Sometimes I just can't help but feel jealous. The reality is we all want to feel special when it comes to the boys and there's only so much Nick, Howie, Brian, Kevin and AJ to go around. I just try to remind myself that other fans' stories don't take away from my interactions in any way!
   
   
   
   
   
9. One thing that I never anticipated is that my perceptions of the boys changed as a result of cruising. I found that being with them 24/7 for a few days you saw different sides of their personalities come out. Things that are tougher to capture in a concert or on TV. For example, if you've been a long-time reader, you may know that after the first cruise I developed such a love for AJ! It was on that first cruise I really saw first hand how down to earth and genuine he is. I also came to really adore Howie and Kevin because I saw how much time and effort they put into mingling with fans and taking pictures. For me, things like that really went unnoticed and unappreciated until I started cruising. 
   
   
   

The Itinerary Has Arrived for #BSBCruise2016!

It's my favorite day of the year! It's like Christmas in April! Without further ado...the Itinerary. My thoughts and analysis below.

BSB Cruise 2016 - Itinerary

Day One: Tuesday May 10, 2015

12:00PM- 2:30PM                   Arrival Onboard Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas

4:15PM                                    Mandatory Emergency Boat Drill

5:00PM                                    Anchors Away Sail Away Party – Pool Deck 11 & 12

6:00PM                                    Dinner Group A

6:00PM                                    Doors Open Group B* Pacifica Theatre Deck 5 & 6

6:30PM                                    BSB Game Night Group B Pacifica Theatre

8:15PM                                    Dinner Group B

9:00PM                                    Doors Open Group A* Pacifica Theatre Deck 5 & 6

9:30PM                                    BSB Game Night Group A Pacifica Theatre

11:30PM                                  IN A WORLD LIKE THIS deck party – Deck 11 & 12

Day Two: Wednesday May 11, 2016

CANNES FRANCE
Arrival at 9:00 AM
All guests must be back onboard by 5:30 PM

6:00PM                                    Photo Session Group B – Colony Club Deck 5

6:00PM                                    Dinner Group A

8:30PM                                    Dinner Group B

9:00PM                                    Doors Open Group A* Pacifica Theatre Deck 5&6

9:30PM                                    Show Em What You’re Made Of Acoustic Hour Group A Pacifica Theatre

11:30PM                                  A NIGHT AT THE CINEMA Deck Party – Deck 11 & 12

Day Three: Thursday May 12, 2016

LIVORNO ITALY
Arrival at 7:00 AM
All guests must be back onboard by 6:30 PM

6:00PM                                                Dinner Group A

6:30PM                                                Mix it up with Howie D – Pool Deck 11 & 12

7:00PM                                                Doors Open Group A

7:30PM                                                Dead 7 Screening and Q+A Group A

8:30PM                                                Dinner Group B

10:00PM                                              Doors Open Group B* Pacifica Theatre Deck 5&6

10:15PM                                              Show Em What You’re Made Of Acoustic Hour Group B Pacifica Theatre

12:00AM                                             CASINO ROYALE DECK PARTY – DECK 11&12

Day Four: Friday May 13, 2016

DAY AT SEA

10:00AM – 2:00PM                             Blackjack Tournaments – Casino

11:00AM                                             Photo Session Group A – Colony Club Deck 5

2:00PM                                             Feed the Body & Soul with the Littrell’s-Pool Deck

2:45PM                                                One on One with Kevy Kev - Pool Deck

3:30PM                                                The Friday Tease with AJ McLean - Pool Deck

4:00PM                                                BSB: Behind the Scenes– Pool Deck

5:00PM                                                Just to be Close to You: A Guinness World Record Attempt – Pool Deck

6:00PM                                                BSB Trivia with Rose Tours

6:00PM                                                Preferred Event – Colony Club – Only those who booked Suites, D1, DP or DAS cabins can attend

6:00PM                                                Dinner Group A

7:00PM                                                Doors Open Group B Pacifica Theatre Deck 5&6

7:30PM                                                Dead 7 Screening and Q+A Group B Pacifica Theatre

8:30PM                                                Dinner Group B

8:30PM                                                Blackjack Tournament Final Table– Casino

11:00PM                                              50 Shades of BSB Leather & Lace Deck Party – Deck 11 & 12

Other Royal Caribbean activities are available to all guests, please check the dailies for times and locations.

*all events subject to change*

Day Five: Saturday May 14, 2016

Day of Debarkation
8:00 AM                                              Arrive at Port of Barcelona Cruise Terminal

Additional Information

* Guests with Early Dining are in Group A.
* Guests with Late Dining are in Group B.

* You will receive your dining room assignment at check in.  Seating in the dining rooms is open.
Please arrive at assigned dining room with your party, the Maitre D’ will seat you. Reservations can be made to any of the specialty restaurants.

Merchandise Store Hours:
The merchandise store is located in the Gift shop on Deck 5.

Day One: Tuesday May 10, 2016
5:30PM – 11:00PM

Day Two: Wednesday May 11, 2016
6:30PM – 11:00PM

Day Three: Thursday May 12, 2016
7:30PM – 11:00PM

Day Four Friday May 13, 2016
10:00AM – 11:00PM 

Hospitality Desk Hours:
The Hospitality Desk is located near the Royal Caribbean guest services desk on Deck 4.

Day One: Tuesday May 10, 2016
4:00PM – 8:00PM

Day Two: Wednesday May 11, 2016
9:00PM – 10:00PM

Day Three: Thursday May 12, 2016
8:00PM – 10:00PM

Day Four: Friday May 13, 2016
8:00PM – 10:00PM


My Thoughts/Pre-Cruise Analysis

I am THRILLED with the itinerary. Seems like Rose Tours and the staff have really listened to feedback and are trying some new things and bringing back some fan favorites.

Solo Events
I love that they brought back solo events for each of the guys, which is very exciting! It really helps fill up the day and give us cruisers a ton more activity, while still giving the guys not as much work. You figure while any given Backstreet Boy is doing his event, the other 4 can rest. Win/Win in my mind!

We already have details on Kevin and Brain's solo events. Mix it Up with Howie D....not sure what to fully expect here. But I'd be willing to bet a hefty sum that alcohol will be involved in some capacity. I really loved his last solo event, so that will be tough to top, but I'm loving where it's headed. 

'The Friday Tease with AJ McLean' is super intriguing! I literally have no guesses here, but if its at the pool deck, I'm sure we'll have a great time no matter what he's doing. Any guesses??

Nick's Dead 7 Screening....as a Nick girl I'm slightly disappointed. I think there's a good number of fans who've already seen the movie, myself included. Thus I'm personally not anticipating this event as much as the others. But hopefully the fans who haven't gotten a chance to see it yet will enjoy. And I'm optimistic that the Q&A portion will be a lot of fun!

Game Show
I always love the game shows, so glad they're keeping a cruise classic. I do find it very interesting that they don't have details on the game show announced yet. Generally for past cruises, they've told us in the itinerary what the game would be. Maybe they're still trying to figure it out ;)

BSB Behind the Scenes
This sounds super exciting!! Obviously not sure what to expect here, but based on the description, it sounds like an event I've always wanted. I think it may be my business/marketing background, but I'm just fascinated by the business of the Backstreet Boys and what goes into their brand - the marketing, the legal, the finances, all of it! Heck, Howie always says that being a Backstreet Boys and being in show business is just as much about the show, as it is the business. I hope we get a glimpse into this.

Concert
We already knew we were getting an acoustic concert. I suppose the new piece of information here is they're clearly calling it "Acoustic Hour". Thus I suppose we should psyche ourselves for an hour-long event. I was hoping for a little longer, but then again, can we ever have a Backstreet Boy concert that's long enough? I'd always want more!

Blackjack Tournaments
Seems like they're bring back blackjack, which is good. Hopefully my luck from last year will continue. I do wonder which Backstreet Boy will be hosting though, as the itinerary didn't state. In years past its been Howie and AJ. So we'll see if they keep taking turns, or perhaps Howie & AJ are the resident card sharks.
Also - keep your eyes peeled for another email from Rose Tours on this. They've generally done sign-ups in advance.

Just to be Close to You: A Guinness World Record Attempt
The Backstreet Boys do seem to like to take after the New Kids, and on the last New Kids cruise they tried to break the record for the most number of selfies in a given time. If I was a betting woman, I'd say the guys will try to do this. Plus with the event name 'Just to be Close to You'...I think it adds up. It'd be great if all the Backstreet Boys participate, but I for some reason I bet AJ would be the host of this event. He does like his selfies!

BSB Trivia with Rose Tours
I have mixed emotions. I am really happy they've finally added in bonus events like this that don't involve the guys, but still are Backstreet related. It sounds like sooo much fun! The reason I have mixed emotions is because they scheduled the 'Preferred Event' at the same time so I won't be able to go #SpoiledBSBFanProblems

Preferred Event
I'm glad they didn't forget about this one! No further clues as to what the event will be, except the fact that its held in the Colony Club. See picture below. If nothing else, the room size tells us about how many fans to expect at this event. I'm really excited though!

Overall 
I am sad that there's no beach party. Even though we already knew that, I suppose I still had some hope they might change their mind. It's definitely a bit different that we have 2 entire days with no events during the day. Depending if you're in Group A or B....one of those days at port will be pretty light on BSB. 

I'm also sad there's no Q&A. That's always a favorite event of mine. But I most certainly not going to dwell on that. I realize they can't do everything, even though I wish they could. 


The other thing I noticed about the itinerary is that for Group A, a couple of events conflict with dinner: the Preferred Event as well as Howie's solo event. Fortunately I'm in group B so it doesn't impact me. But even if I was, hands down, I'd choose the BSB events and skip dinner. Just part of the sacrifice of a BSB cruise.


Also - I'm already anticipating how tired I'm going to be on that last sea day! Its going to be so busy but so much fun! Its really starting to feel real!

Feed the Body & Soul With The Littrells

Just announced! Another contest/event, and this time featuring Brian. I've included the email below, in case you didn't get it.

Feed the Body & Soul With The Littrells
Join The Littrells for some fun one-on-one time on the Lido deck. Brian will play chef just for you and cook one of his favorite meals while sharing personal stories from his life on the road!

He'd also like to see your creative side. Can you create a poem only using BSB lyrics? What about a song? Show Brian what you got.. Submit your song/poem and Brian will pick a few of his favorites to bring up during his event and share.

Great food ✔️
Quality Littrell time ✔️
Showing off your creative side ✔️
A once in a lifetime experience ✔️

Submit your entries here by April 25th
Winners will be notified in advance.
Good luck and happy cruising!

I'm quite excited about this! First and foremost, it's a different event. I love the idea of chatting with Brian and having him cook for me!! Granted, I have no idea how I'd be able to eat in front of a Backstreet Boy. But alas, I won't count my chickens before they hatch. I do plan on entering this one...I gotta get those creative juiced flowing. And only 5 days to put something together. Yikes! As if I wasn't busy enough.

I also think it's great they're doing these one-on-one events with the boys and giving fans a chance to show off their talents. I love that it's rewarding fans who put in some additional effort as opposed to random drawings.

Good luck to all those entering! Please keep your fingers crossed for me :)

Update with Email #2

Update - Feed the Body & Soul With The Littrells
Hello fans, just a quick update to let everyone know that Brian’s event onboard is open to every guest.  We will all watch him cook and talk about life and his family.
 
The writers of the few poems/songs he selects will just go up on stage to read their selections with Brian to everyone. 

Looks like I may have misinterpreted the event, but I wasn't alone. That's great though, we all get lots of Brian time! Woohoo!

One on One with Kevy Kev

Hot off the presses, 5 lucky cruisers will have a chance to sing a duet with Kevin! All you need to do is submit a video of you singing and cross your fingers that you get selected. I included the email from Rose Tours below, including the link to submit your entry.

In case you were wondering, I have zero vocal talent and will not be submitting a video. I need Nick to host a video game contest. Now that would be right up my alley! :P

Good luck to all those entering.

On the upcoming BSB Cruise - Five fans will get the chance to prove that they are the best singers on-board, besides the five boys of course

This is your once in a lifetime opportunity to sing a duet with Mr. Kevin Richardson in front of the entire ship! (but no pressure)

If you are interested, please upload a video of yourself performing your song of choice. Please submit your name, cabin # and YouTube link below(video should be no longer than 60 seconds).

Kevin will personally select the five lucky fans to join him in a duet.

We can only accept submissions until Tuesday, April 19th 12:00 Noon ET. So start warming up those vocal chords.

Submit your entry here

Winners will be notified in advance.

Good luck!

Guest Blogger: A European Perspective

I am excited to have another amazing guest blogger. Her name is Gaby and this will be her first cruise, coming all the way from the Netherlands! She loves all the boys but loves Brian just "a little bit more" than the rest ;) Since I'm a naive American, Gaby is graciously offered to help provide a local perspective on the cruise and share some insight on what we can expect traveling in Europe.

Hey guys! So, Laura has given me the opportunity to write a guest blog for you, and I’m very excited! I love this blog and it’s been extremely helpful getting ready for my first cruise. I would like to give something in return, so I hope you will enjoy my post.

I am so, so happy that the Boys really do listen to us and are giving us the European cruise so many of us have been asking for. I’ve been wanting to go on a Backstreet Boys cruise for years, but unfortunately I could never afford the pricey cruise as well as the additional travel to the USA (even though I desperately wanted to because I LOVE the USA!).

So… Europe. I can imagine that a lot of this year’s cruisers have never been there before. While most of Europe is considered “Western” and isn’t shockingly different from the States, there are some things you should take into consideration, I believe. Hopefully this post will give you some useful information so that you can spend all of your time and energy on preparing for the most important part: cruising with the Backstreet Boys!

The Language
While most people in Northern Europe speak English, this is actually not the case in the Mediterranean. It is my experience that very few people there speak English, and if they do it is usually very limited. I would advise to learn some basic phrases in the languages you need (or carry them with you on paper or your phone). Even if you can’t pronounce it correctly or can’t understand the reply, when people see you are willing to make an effort to speak their language they will be much more inclined to do the same. If you go up to someone and assume they will speak English, you might be in for a surprise.

Also, the majority of the locals in Barcelona speak Catalan. Most of them can also speak Spanish and signs, menus etc. are usually in both Catalan and Spanish.

The Food
These days there are more and more American chains in Europe (McDonalds, Burger King, Hard Rock Café, Starbucks etc.), but most of the food is different. Pretty much every country has its own cuisine, and even different regions have different food. In Barcelona you will find a lot of seafood and, of course, “tapas”. The kind of food associated with “haute cuisine” is usually French. Italy has a lot more to offer than just pizza and pasta! Keep in mind though that most menus will not be in English (there are a few exceptions, e.g. Hard Rock Café), so if you are allergic to something it might be a good idea to look up the translation beforehand.

If you’re staying in a big(ger) hotel, it will most likely serve a “continental breakfast”. This usually includes bread, cereals, eggs, pancakes, bacon or sausages, yoghurt and fruit.

Also, meal times are usually quite late in the Mediterranean – lunch around 2 pm and dinner no earlier than 9 pm is not uncommon.

Also, a little warning: if you're used to very clean & safe tap water, it might be a good idea to only drink bottled water in the Mediterranean. The quality of water can be different and I wouldn't want anyone to spend their cruise on the toilet! 

The Money
Spain, France and Italy all use the Euro (€), but if you’re also traveling to other countries it might be a good idea to check their currency. Most EU (European Union) countries use the Euro, but there are some exceptions (e.g. UK, Sweden, Switzerland). At the moment, €1 is worth about $1,05.
Most hotels and the bigger stores and restaurant will accept credit cards (mostly Visa and Mastercard), but this is not always the case with for instance local stores. It’s a good idea to have at least some cash on you.

The Weather
This cruise is going to be a little different weather-wise… While the Mediterranean usually has the warmest weather of Europe, it is never a guarantee. In early May, it can be very hot and sunny but also chilly and rainy. It will most likely be chilly once the sun goes down, especially on the boat. Be sure to pack a pair of jeans and a warm sweater!

The Siestas
It is possible that some shops and restaurants are closed in the early afternoon for “siesta”. Exact times vary, but between 12 pm and 2 pm is a good indicator. You will probably not find this in the bigger cities (except maybe some small, local shops).

I hope that was helpful! If you have any other questions, please leave them in the comments and I’ll try to answer them.

Good luck with all preparations and I hope to see you on the boat!

Check-In Time

Cruisers - I can't believe it's time to check-in. I seriously can't believe we're 1 month away!!!

You should've received an email from Rose Tours with check-in information. Make sure you get this filled out before you set sail. It's similar to checking in for a flight. The cruise line needs some key information to allow you to board, come the day of the cruise.

In case you missed the email, I've included it below. I also want to point out a few things...

The policies seem to be similar to past cruises. I've seen a few of you concerned that the email says that video cameras will not be allowed at events, nor will video be permitted at the concerts. Hopefully you can take comfort in the fact that they say this every year and they don't strictly enforce it. The only time where they are strict about 'no cameras' is at the official meet & greet, for obvious reasons. I imagine they might not allow professional video cameras, but if you're just using your phone or a point-and-shoot camera, I think we'll be fine.

Hey Laura!

Let's get ready to sail away with the Backstreet Boys and spend 4 nights cruising the open waters partying like only BSB fans can.

Before the nonstop fun can start we need to take care of some business. All guests sailing on Royal Caribbean are required to complete an online check in no later than 11:59 pm May 7th, three days prior to sailing. Once the quick and easy Online Check In process is complete you can proceed to print your SetSail Pass and Luggage Tags and book shore excursions and spa appointments (opening soon).

New for this year, you will have the ability to purchase any of Royal Caribbean's beverage packages. You can do this online or onboard. You can find more information here.

** Please note that the cruise itinerary will be sent approximately two weeks prior. **

To begin the Online Check In process click the following link- Royal Caribbean Online Checkin

Check-in online! It's easy. We'll show you how in 4 simple steps. You can also view a tutorial here.

When you check-in online, it saves time. You won't have to fill out any forms at the pier. When you and your party arrive, you'll just need your signed SetSail pass, identification documents, and credit card that you used to register online.

First, gather the following information for all the guests you're checking in:

✔ Ship, sailing date and Royal Caribbean reservation number
✔  Passport or appropriate proof of citizenship and identification
✔  Home address
✔  Emergency contact name with phone number
✔  Travel plans before and after your cruise
✔  Credit card for the Onboard Expense Account

Ship Name: Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas
Sail Date: 05/10/16
Step 1: Guest Information: In this step, you'll provide the passport or acceptable proof of citizenship and documentation  required to travel for all guests you're checking in. You will also need their home address and emergency contact information.

IMPORTANT:  The information you enter must be identical to the way it appears on the identification documents you take to the pier. Middle names are not required. Discrepancies may result in delayed or denied boarding.

NOTE: Your name on the reservation must also match your proof of citizenship documents.
Step 2: On-Board Expense Account: Onboard your ship, you will use a cashless system for purchases and services.

You can set up your Onboard Expense Account in advance.
You can link it to your credit card or cash (There is a $300 minimum on cash desposits)

Step 3: Cruise Ticket Contract: In this step, you can certify the Cruise Ticket Contract (CTC) in advance for yourself and others in your stateroom and/or minor passengers (under 18) sailing in another stateroom.

Step 4: Set Sail Pass: In this final step, you can review and print your SetSail Pass and learn more about what to expect at the pier.

TIP: For security purposes, the system will time out after 30 minutes even though there is activity, so make sure you have everything listed above before you begin.

IMPORTANT: You must complete and print your SetSail Pass 3 days prior to your sail date.

If you are having technical issues while checking in please call Royal Caribbean: US or Canada: (800) 256-6649 • Outside the U.S.: (954) 628-9290  for assistance.

Please have proper travel documentation (valid Passport/ any required Visas) and your Boarding pass with you for check-in at the pier.
We suggest you put any necessary medication in your carryon bag since any checked luggage will not be delivered to your stateroom until later in the day.

CRUISE INFORMATION

AUTOGRAPHS: No autographs will be given at the photo sessions.

PHOTO SESSIONS: We will have groups of 4 or 5 passengers for each picture with THE BSB. This way we will be able to see everyone, no one will be left without a photo. Please respect this group policy. Please arrive at the Photo Session with your group! NO CAMERAS, MOBILE PHONES, GIFTS OR BAGS WILL BE ADMITTED INTO THE PHOTO SESSION. A link will be sent about 2 weeks after the cruise for you to download your photo. PERSONAL CAMERAS /

VIDEO CAMERAS: Please feel free to bring your personal camera to all events except for the official photo sessions. If personal cameras are brought to the photo sessions, you will have to return it to your cabin. Video cameras allowed only for personal events. They are not allowed at official THE BSB cruise events.

WRISTBANDS: You will receive your wristband at check-in. There are 6 wristband colors. These colors represent the zones in the Pacifica Theater. Your wristband will have your exact seat assignment and either an A or B, which will denote your dining and event time. Wristband color and seat assignment number was determined by time of booking. Please note that these wristbands are required for all events. DO NOT REMOVE these wristbands until the end of the cruise. There will be no seating changes.

PERSONAL GIFTS TO THE BSB: Gifts will NOT be permitted at any THE BSB scheduled events. Gifts can be left at the Rose Tours hospitality desk located next to Guest Services deck 4. Please consult your itinerary for Hospitality Hours. Your gifts will be delivered to THE BSB.

BSB. SEATING: All seating in the Pacifica Theater will be reserved. Your wristband determines which zone you are in and your Seat Number. Please look at the seating charts provided at check in to see where you will be seated. Please respect the seating policy and do not switch seats during the events. Please be respectful of others when entering the Pacifica Theater.

CONCERT: The BSB Concerts will be reserved seating in the Pacifica Theater. Each group gets ONE concert. NO ONE WILL BE ADMITTED INTO THE OTHER GROUPS CONCERT. Please respect your fellow guests during the concert. VIDEO IS NOT PERMITTED DURING THE CONCERT!

DRESS: Dress during the day is casual (shorts, shirts, skirts, jeans, etc.) Theme nights are as follows:

Tuesday, May 10th – In a World Like This Night: This night is all about celebrating where you're from - show your hometown pride. Show off your country/state/city pride with flags, shirts, countries colors, etc.!

Wednesday, May 11th – A night at the Cinema! In honor of being in Cannes on opening night of the world famous Cannes Film Festival, we're channeling our inner movie star and dressing as our favorite movie character.

Thursday, May 12th – Casino Royale Night! - Dress to kill and be ready to join the boys on deck for a martini, shaken not stirred.

Friday, May 13th – Leather and Lace Night! - Come dressed in your best leather and/or lace and let's see where the night takes us. Laters, baby.

DINING ROOMS:
Guests with Early Dining are in Group A (Minstrel Dining Room)
Guests with Late Dining are in Group B (Minstrel Dining Room)
• You will receive dining room assignment at check in. Seating in the dining room is open.
• Beach & Swim Wear is not allowed in the Dining Room.
• Please arrive at your assigned dining room with your party, the Maitre D' will seat you.
• Other options include 24 hour Room Service ( service charge for room service between midnight and 5 a.m.), Buffet on Deck 11 or the Seaview Cafe.