Before the ship sails, every guest must complete the safety drill, known as muster. On many ships it is now largely digital. Royal Caribbean’s version, which it calls Muster 2.0, shows how this works.
How a Digital Muster Works
- You review the safety information — where your assembly station is, what the emergency signal sounds like, how life jackets work — on the Royal Caribbean app or your stateroom TV.
- You then walk to your assigned assembly station, where a crew member checks you in.
- The ship’s systems record that you have completed each step.
- Guests without a smartphone can use the interactive stateroom TV.
Your assembly station is shown in the app and on your cruise documents or cabin door. Walk the route from your cabin once, so you know it without thinking.
Your First Afternoon on Board
- Do the muster drill early, before the rush just ahead of sail-away.
- Connect to the ship’s network so the app can show your schedule and reservations.
- Check your dining and show reservations and fill any gaps while there is choice.
- Book spa treatments or shore tours you put off, since popular ones fill on day one.
- Confirm your onboard account is linked to a payment method.
- Walk the ship from bow to stern to learn the layout.
Using the App Through the Cruise
On Royal Caribbean ships, the app holds your daily schedule, reservations and onboard account, and it is where you complete the safety review. Turn on notifications for changes to port times or show schedules. If something in the app does not work, guest services can do the same tasks in person.
When the Ship Sails
Head on deck for sail-away, then settle in. Your luggage may still be on its way — that is normal on a large ship. By evening, your cabin should be ready for unpacking.
Muster Drill Questions
What if I do not have a smartphone?
Royal Caribbean says guests can complete the safety review on the interactive stateroom TV instead, then check in at their assembly station.
Do children need to complete the muster drill?
Yes. Every guest must complete it, and families should go to the assembly station together.
When Your Cabin Opens
Cabins on large ships are usually opened in stages during the early afternoon, once housekeeping has finished. Announcements or app notices tell you when your deck is ready. Until then, keep your carry-on with you and enjoy lunch and the open decks.
If you miss the drill because of a late boarding or an emergency, tell guest services at once; the crew will arrange for you to complete it.
Plan a Relaxed First Day at Sea
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise can help you plan the first afternoon and book what matters before you sail. Free quotes on any cruise.
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