Royal Caribbean University Training Guide & Tips
Picture yourself sipping coffee on a Wednesday at noon, tuned into Vicki Freed's weekly Coffee Talk, learning insider tips that'll help you book more cruises and earn bigger commissions! That's just one slice of what Royal Caribbean University (RCU) offers travel agents who want to level up their cruise-selling game!
Whether you're brand new to selling travel or you've been booking vacations for years, RCU is your backstage pass to becoming a Royal Caribbean expert! And here's the best part—it's completely free, accessible 24/7, and designed specifically for busy agents who need bite-sized training they can tackle on the go!
Ready to dive in? Let's explore everything you need to know about this game-changing training platform!
Become a Royal Caribbean Travel Professional with us here at MainStreet Travel! We offer a $99 Starter Membership and a $199 Travel Plus Membership, both one-time fees! We have no minimum booking requirements which means you can work as much or as little as you want! We have extensive training and amazing community support! Check out our 5-star reviews from Host Agency Reviews! Start working from home today!
What Exactly Is Royal Caribbean University?
Royal Caribbean University isn't your typical boring corporate training program. Think of it more like Netflix for cruise education—engaging video modules, interactive quizzes, and real-world insights you can use right away!
Launched in 2017, RCU completely transformed how travel agents learn about Royal Caribbean's products. The platform was built from the ground up with travel professionals in mind, featuring mobile-friendly design so you can learn while waiting at soccer practice or during your lunch break!
The RCU Experience
Here's what makes RCU different from other cruise line training programs:
Video-Based Learning: Forget reading endless PDFs! RCU uses short, punchy video modules that keep you engaged.
Micro-Learning Segments: Each course is broken into manageable chunks—perfect for squeezing education into your busy schedule.
Continuous Updates: The curriculum constantly evolves with new courses and content about the latest ships, destinations, and features.
Mobile-Friendly Platform: Learn anywhere, anytime, from any device.
How to Access Royal Caribbean University
Getting started with RCU is easier than booking a cruise! Here's your step-by-step roadmap:
Step 1: Log into CruisingPower.com (Royal Caribbean's agent portal)
Step 2: Click on "Training & Benefits"
Step 3: Select "Training & Certification"
Step 4: Click "Royal Caribbean Int'l"
Step 5: You'll see the RCU dashboard—welcome to your new classroom!
If you don't have CruisingPower access yet, you'll need to register first. Most travel agents access this through their host agency, CLIA number, IATA number, or TRUE accreditation.
The Three Learning Tracks Explained
RCU structures its curriculum into three progressive tracks that take you from newbie to master!
Campus Tour: Your Welcome Mat
Think of this as your orientation day! The Campus Tour introduces you to the RCU platform itself and gives you a bird's-eye view of what's ahead.
What You'll Learn:
How to navigate the RCU platform
Where to find resources
Understanding the learning structure
Setting up your profile
Time Commitment: About 30 minutes
Bachelor of Adventure: Building Your Foundation
This is where the real learning begins! The Bachelor of Adventure covers everything you need to confidently sell Royal Caribbean cruises.
Core Topics Include:
Fleet Knowledge: Deep dives into Royal Caribbean's 25+ ships, from the revolutionary Icon Class to the intimate Radiance Class
Destinations & Itineraries: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and beyond—you'll know where each ship sails
Dining Options: Main dining rooms, specialty restaurants, and complimentary venues
Accommodations: From interior cabins to Royal Suite Class—understanding what fits different budgets
Entertainment: Broadway shows, AquaTheater performances, and everything in between
Accessible Programming: How Royal Caribbean accommodates guests with special needs
Perfect Day at CocoCay: The private island destination that's a major selling point
Royal Beach Club: New exclusive beach destinations launching in Nassau and Cozumel
Time Commitment: Approximately 4-6 hours to complete the full curriculum
What You'll Earn: Bachelor of Adventure degree, CLIA credits, eligibility for bonus commissions, and social media banners to showcase your achievement
Master of Adventure: Reaching Expert Status
Ready to separate yourself from the pack? The Master of Adventure takes you deeper into advanced selling strategies and product knowledge.
Advanced Curriculum Covers:
Advanced Ship Features: Specialty suites, exclusive venues, and premium experiences
Group Sales Strategies: How to book and manage group travel
Upselling Techniques: Moving clients from standard cabins to balconies and suites
Destination Deep-Dives: Port-specific knowledge and excursion recommendations
Royal Suite Class: Understanding the three-tier system (Sea, Sky, and Star Class)
Special Promotions: How to maximize limited-time offers and wave season deals
Problem-Solving Scenarios: Handling common booking challenges
Time Commitment: An additional 2-4 hours beyond your Bachelor's degree (6-8 hours total for both degrees)
What You'll Earn: Master of Adventure degree, additional CLIA credits, enhanced bonus commission eligibility, complimentary VOOM WiFi, onboard credits, priority access to Seminars at Sea, and invitations to inaugural sailings
Monthly Knowledge Checks Keep You Sharp
Here's something cool—RCU releases monthly knowledge checks to keep your skills fresh and your information current.
These quick quizzes cover:
New ship launches
Updated itineraries
Seasonal promotions
Product enhancements
Industry news
They usually take just 10-15 minutes but help you stay on top of what's new. Plus, completing them can unlock additional perks and keep your certification status active!
Additional RCU Resources
RCU isn't just about earning degrees—it's your ongoing resource hub for everything Royal Caribbean.
Coffee Talks with Vicki Freed
Every Wednesday at noon EST, Vicki Freed (Senior VP of Sales, Trade Support and Service) hosts live Coffee Talks exclusively for travel agents!
These aren't your typical corporate webcasts—Vicki brings personality, insider knowledge, and real talk about what agents need to succeed! You'll hear about:
Upcoming promotions before they go public
Ship deployment news
Q&A sessions where you can ask anything
Success stories from top-producing agents
Special guests from Royal Caribbean leadership
Can't make it live? No worries—recordings are available on-demand in the RCU platform.
Live Webcasts & Training Series
The Royal Sales Training Team hosts regular webcasts beyond Coffee Talks. Topics include:
Deep dives on new ships
Destination-focused training
Sales technique workshops
Technology tutorials for CruisingPower
Quick Training Bites
Short on time? RCU offers bite-sized training modules you can complete in 5-10 minutes. These cover:
Specific ship features
How to handle common objections
Quick tips for closing bookings
Marketing ideas for your business
The Rewards You Actually Get
Let's talk about what's in it for you—because Royal Caribbean doesn't just give you knowledge, they reward you for it!
CLIA Credits
Both the Bachelor and Master programs award CLIA elective credits. These count toward:
Certified Travel Associate (CTA) designation
Cruise Counselor (CC) certification
Master Cruise Counselor (MCC) certification
ACC (Accredited Cruise Counselor) credentials
Fun fact: Royal Caribbean partnered with The Travel Institute to offer $7,500 in CTA certification sponsorships for Master's degree graduates!
Bonus Commissions
Here's where it gets exciting—completing RCU degrees makes you eligible for bonus commissions on top of your standard commission.
Royal Caribbean's base commission structure typically starts around 10%, but graduates can access:
Enhanced commission tiers (up to 16% for high-volume producers)
Limited-time bonus commission promotions (often $25-$50 per stateroom)
Early booking bonuses
Suite booking incentives
Travel Agent Perks
When you cruise Royal Caribbean yourself (for research purposes, of course!), RCU graduates receive special benefits:
VOOM WiFi: Complimentary high-speed internet so you can stay connected
Onboard Credits: Extra spending money for specialty dining, spa services, or shore excursions
Travel Partner Friends & Family Rates: Special pricing for you and your crew
Priority Privileges: Access to ship tours, FAM trips, and Seminars at Sea
Marketing Materials
Show off your expertise! RCU graduates receive:
Downloadable certificates
Social media banners and badges
Email signature graphics
Website badges
These help you stand out when clients are choosing which agent to book with.
FAM Trips & Seminars at Sea
Want to experience Royal Caribbean ships firsthand? RCU graduates get priority consideration for familiarization trips and Seminars at Sea.
These experiences typically include:
Onboard Training: Learn while cruising
Behind-the-Scenes Tours: See crew areas, kitchens, and operational spaces
Networking: Meet other top agents and Royal Caribbean leadership
Cabin Tours: Experience different stateroom categories
Dining Experiences: Try specialty restaurants and main dining
FAM trips are usually invite-only and coordinated through your Strategic Account Manager based on your sales production, graduation status, and engagement with training.
How RCU Compares to Other Cruise Line Training
Wondering how RCU stacks up against Norwegian Cruise Line University, Princess Cruises Academy, or other programs?
Similarities
Free online access for registered agents
Video-based learning modules
Tiered certification levels
CLIA credit opportunities
Bonus commission incentives
RCU's Standout Features
Vicki Freed's weekly Coffee Talks: No other cruise line offers this level of executive engagement
Monthly knowledge checks: Keeps content fresh and agents current
Mobile optimization: Truly designed for on-the-go learning
Microlearning approach: Shorter, digestible segments vs. lengthy courses
Continuous content updates: New courses added regularly for new ships and destinations
Time Investment Comparison
RCU: 6-8 hours for full Master's degree
NCL University: Similar timeframe, four degree levels
Disney College of Knowledge: Can be completed in 1-2 days of focused study
Princess Academy: Approximately 8-10 hours for full certification
Real-World Success Stories
Let's hear from actual travel agents who've completed RCU training!
"Royal Caribbean is a very popular cruise line that caters to a wide demographic of travelers. Being able to offer perks and group rates to my clients has been very valuable to building my travel advisor business. Once my clients sail on a Royal Caribbean ship, they are hooked. Many of my clients even book their next sailing on board."— Sharon Iannone, Travel Advisor
"There's so much to do that when I send my clients on a Royal Caribbean ship, they will never have a boring moment. When I put clients on Royal Caribbean ships, I am sure they will have a great experience regardless of the ship, coming home with no complaints—which is not the case with some other cruise lines."— Elena Ollick, Travel Advisor
Common Questions & Mistakes to Avoid
Do I Need RCU Training to Book Royal Caribbean?
Technically, no—you can book Royal Caribbean cruises without completing RCU. However, you'll miss out on:
Bonus commission opportunities
Agent perks when you sail
CLIA credits
Priority FAM trip invitations
Marketing materials
Plus, you won't have the deep product knowledge that helps you confidently answer client questions and close more bookings.
How Long Does RCU Take to Complete?
Campus Tour: 30 minutes
Bachelor of Adventure: 4-6 hours
Master of Adventure: Additional 2-4 hours (6-8 hours total)
You don't have to finish everything in one sitting! The platform saves your progress, so you can chip away at it over several days or weeks.
Do I Need a CLIA Card for RCU Benefits?
For accessing and completing the training? Nope!
For using travel agent perks when you cruise? It depends. Some benefits like bonus commissions and agent rates don't require a personal CLIA card—they're tied to your agency's credentials. However, having your own CLIA card can be helpful for certain situations and identification purposes.
Common Rookie Mistakes
Skipping the Campus Tour: Don't jump straight to the Bachelor program! The Campus Tour teaches you how to navigate RCU effectively.
Trying to Complete Everything in One Day: Information overload is real. Space out your learning to retain more.
Not Applying the Coffee Talk Webcasts: These sessions contain golden nuggets—take notes and implement what you learn.
Forgetting Monthly Knowledge Checks: These keep you current and maintain your certification status.
Not Using Your Marketing Materials: Royal Caribbean gives you badges and banners—put them on your website and social media!
Tips for Maximum Success
Create a Study Schedule
Block out dedicated time for RCU training. Treat it like a client appointment—non-negotiable!
Sample Schedule:
Week 1: Campus Tour + first 2 Bachelor modules
Week 2: Bachelor modules 3-5
Week 3: Finish Bachelor, take final exam
Week 4: Start Master of Adventure
Week 5: Complete Master curriculum
Week 6: Final Master exam, celebrate graduation!
Take Notes While Learning
Create a reference document with key facts:
Ship amenities by class
Popular itineraries
Selling points for different demographics
Answers to common client questions
Attend Coffee Talks Religiously
Every Wednesday at noon EST, be there! Vicki Freed shares information you won't find anywhere else. If you can't attend live, watch the recording ASAP.
Network with Other Agents
Join Facebook groups and online communities where RCU graduates share tips, ask questions, and support each other.
Apply Learning Immediately
Don't just collect certificates—use your knowledge! After each module, think about how you'll apply it:
Update your website with new ship information
Create social media posts highlighting features you learned
Reach out to past clients with relevant offers
Practice explaining amenities to friends and family
Stay Current
Royal Caribbean constantly evolves:
New ships launch regularly (Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, Star of the Seas)
Destinations and itineraries change
Private destinations expand (Royal Beach Club openings)
Promotions come and go
Complete those monthly knowledge checks and watch for RCU announcements about new courses.
Understanding CruisingPower
While RCU handles training, CruisingPower.com is where you'll do the actual booking work.
Key CruisingPower Features
Booking Engine (CruiseMatch): Search inventory, create reservations, and manage bookings
Marketing Hub: Access promotional materials, create e-quotes, download brochures
Ship Locator: GPS tracking to see where Royal Caribbean ships are in real-time
Cruise Planner: Help clients book shore excursions, specialty dining, and onboard experiences
Latte Chat: Customer support for CruisingPower questions
Travel Agent Locator Profile: Set up your profile so potential clients can find you on RoyalCaribbean.com
Navigating the New CruisingPower Interface
Royal Caribbean recently updated CruisingPower with a fresh, cleaner look. The homepage now features:
Streamlined booking search
Quick access to existing reservations
Enhanced marketing tools
Improved mobile responsiveness
Commission Structure Information
Let's talk money—because that's ultimately why we're here, right?
Base Commission
Royal Caribbean typically pays 10% base commission on the cruise fare (excluding taxes and fees).
Example Calculation:
Total Package: $5,000
Cruise Fare: $4,500
Taxes/Fees: $500 (non-commissionable)
Base Commission: $450 (10% of $4,500)
Tiered Commission Levels
High-volume producers earn higher commission rates:
Standard Agent: 10% (0-24 passengers annually)
Gold Circle: 11% (25-74 passengers annually)
Diamond Circle: 13% (75-149 passengers annually)
Diamond Plus: 14% (150-249 passengers annually)
Platinum Circle: 16% (250+ passengers annually)
Host Agency Splits
If you work with a host agency, you'll split commission:
Common Split Structures:
70/30 (You get 70%, agency keeps 30%)
80/20 (You get 80%, agency keeps 20%)
85/15 or 90/10 for high producers
Example with Host Split:
Gross Commission: $450
Your Split: 80/20
Your Take-Home: $360
Agency Keep: $90
Bonus Commissions
RCU graduates qualify for various bonus commission opportunities:
Wave Season promotions
New ship launch incentives
Last-minute booking bonuses
Suite upgrade commissions
These can add $25-$100+ per booking on top of your base commission!
Advanced Selling Strategies
Once you've completed RCU, here are proven tactics to boost your Royal Caribbean bookings:
Know Your Client's Priorities
Families: Highlight Adventure Ocean kids' programs, water slides, Perfect Day at CocoCay
Couples: Focus on romance—balcony cabins, specialty dining, adult-only Solarium areas
Multi-Generational Groups: Emphasize connecting staterooms, variety of activities for all ages, flexible dining options
First-Time Cruisers: Stress value, all-inclusive aspects, ease of vacation planning
Frequent Cruisers: Upsell suites, Royal Suite Class benefits, new ships and itineraries
Use RCU Knowledge to Overcome Objections
"Cruises are boring": Share details about FlowRider surfing simulators, rock climbing, zip lines, Broadway shows, and AquaTheater performances
"I'll get seasick": Explain ship stabilizers, recommend mid-ship cabins, suggest shorter sailings to test the waters
"It's too expensive": Break down the value—meals, entertainment, accommodations, and transportation all included. Compare to a land vacation's total cost
"I don't want to be stuck on a ship": Highlight ports of call, shore excursions, and private destinations like CocoCay
Leverage Royal Caribbean's Unique Selling Points
Perfect Day at CoCay: This private island is a massive differentiator. Up the Ante Zone, Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club—learn every detail and paint the picture for clients
VOOM WiFi: Fastest internet at sea powered by Starlink. Huge selling point for remote workers and families who want to share their vacation on social media
Crown & Anchor Society: Royal Caribbean's loyalty program offers tiered benefits. If your client has cruised Royal before, find out their level and explain the perks they'll receive
Royal Suite Class: Three tier levels (Sea, Sky, Star) with incredible benefits like Royal Genie service for Star Class guests
Entertainment Quality: From ice skating shows to aquatic acrobatics, Royal Caribbean's entertainment is unmatched
Marketing Your RCU Expertise
Don't be shy about your accomplishments! Here's how to showcase your Royal Caribbean expertise:
Website & Blog
Add RCU graduate badges prominently
Write blog posts about specific ships or destinations
Create comparison guides ("Oasis Class vs. Icon Class")
Share client testimonials from Royal Caribbean cruises
Social Media
Use your official RCU social media banners
Post behind-the-scenes content from FAM trips
Share weekly "Royal Caribbean Tips"
Go live after Coffee Talks with key takeaways
Create countdown posts for new ship launches
Email Marketing
Add your RCU certification to your email signature
Send newsletters highlighting Royal Caribbean promotions
Create segmented campaigns for past Royal Caribbean clients
Offer exclusive "graduate agent" perks to your clients
Networking
Mention your RCU certification when meeting potential clients
Speak at local events about cruise vacations
Partner with wedding planners and event coordinators
Join BNI or other business networking groups
The Royal Caribbean Difference for Travel Agents
Why does Royal Caribbean invest so heavily in agent education and support?
Because they genuinely value the travel agent partnership! Senior VP Vicki Freed has said, "Travel agents are our most valued partners, and providing them with not only the right tools but the best is at the core of our commitment to their success."
This isn't just corporate speak—Royal Caribbean backs it up with:
Comprehensive free training (RCU)
Weekly executive engagement (Coffee Talks)
Competitive commission structures
Agent perks and benefits
FAM trip opportunities
Responsive support teams
Continuous platform improvements
Future of RCU
Royal Caribbean continues evolving RCU with:
New Ship Training
As Royal Caribbean launches new vessels, expect dedicated RCU modules for:
Star of the Seas (Icon Class, 2025)
Discovery Class ships (details TBA)
Future Oasis Class additions
Destination Expansion
New courses covering:
Royal Beach Club locations (Cozumel 2026, Perfect Day Mexico 2027)
Emerging cruise ports
Updated itineraries
Technology Integration
Potential future features:
Virtual reality ship tours
AI-powered practice scenarios
Gamification elements
Mobile app for offline learning
Here Are Your Next Steps
Ready to become an RCU graduate? Here's your action plan:
Today:
Log into CruisingPower.com
Navigate to RCU
Complete the Campus Tour
Register for Vicki Freed's next Coffee Talk
This Week:
5. Start Bachelor of Adventure modules
6. Join Royal Caribbean agent Facebook groups
7. Create your study schedule
This Month:
8. Complete Bachelor of Adventure
9. Earn your first degree!
10. Download and display your marketing materials
11. Watch recorded Coffee Talks you missed
This Quarter:
12. Complete Master of Adventure
13. Apply for your first FAM trip
14. Use your knowledge to book more Royal Caribbean cruises
15. Track your commission growth
Royal Caribbean Frequently Asked Questions
Is Royal Caribbean University actually free?
Yes! RCU is 100% free for registered travel agents. There are no hidden fees or subscription costs.
Can I complete RCU if I'm brand new to being a travel agent?
Absolutely! RCU is designed for agents at all experience levels. The Campus Tour starts with the basics, and the curriculum progressively builds your knowledge.
Do I need to complete RCU to book Royal Caribbean cruises?
No, but completing RCU unlocks bonus commissions, agent perks, marketing materials, and CLIA credits. Plus, you'll have the confidence and knowledge to serve clients better and close more sales.
How long does my RCU certification last?
Your degree doesn't expire, but you'll need to complete newly added courses to maintain active certification status. Monthly knowledge checks help keep you current.
Can I pause my RCU training and come back later?
Yes! The platform saves your progress automatically. You can log out anytime and pick up right where you left off.
What happens after I graduate from RCU?
You'll receive your degree certificate, CLIA credits, access to bonus commission opportunities, marketing materials, and eligibility for agent perks. Keep learning through monthly knowledge checks and Coffee Talks!
Is there a test to graduate?
Yes, both Bachelor and Master programs include assessments to ensure you've absorbed the material. Don't worry—the content prepares you well for the quizzes!
Can I retake courses if I don't pass?
Absolutely! You can review materials and retake assessments as needed.
Does completing RCU guarantee I'll get invited to FAM trips?
Not automatically, but it significantly increases your chances. FAM trip invitations are typically based on sales volume, training completion, and relationship with your Business Development Manager.
How does RCU compare to Disney's College of Knowledge?
Both are free online training platforms, but they differ in structure. Disney's College of Knowledge can be completed faster (1-2 days of focused study), while RCU's microlearning approach is designed for busy agents to complete in shorter chunks over time. RCU also offers weekly live interaction through Coffee Talks, which Disney doesn't provide.
Will completing RCU help me get better commission rates?
Indirectly, yes! While RCU graduation itself doesn't change your base commission tier, it helps you sell more Royal Caribbean cruises through better product knowledge. Higher sales volume moves you into better commission tiers. Plus, you qualify for bonus commission promotions.
Can I use my CLIA credits from RCU toward other certifications?
Yes! CLIA elective credits earned through RCU count toward various Travel Institute designations like CTA, CTC, and ACC certifications.
Are there advanced courses beyond Master of Adventure?
While Master of Adventure is the highest degree, RCU continuously adds new specialty courses about specific ships, destinations, and features. There are also periodic advanced webinars and specialized training sessions.
What if I have questions while completing RCU?
You can email RCU@rccl.com for training-related questions or RoyalSalesTraining@rccl.com for webcast inquiries. Plus, fellow agents in online communities are usually happy to help!
Do I need to tell my clients I completed RCU?
You absolutely should! It demonstrates your expertise and commitment to providing the best Royal Caribbean experience. Use your badges, certificates, and marketing materials proudly!
Royal Caribbean Mastery
Royal Caribbean University isn't just another training requirement you check off a list—it's your launchpad to becoming a confident, successful cruise specialist who can compete with anyone in the travel industry!
Think about it: you'll know the ships inside and out, understand which itineraries appeal to different clients, confidently explain onboard experiences, and have insider knowledge most agents don't possess. When a potential client asks you about Royal Caribbean, you won't hesitate or fumble for answers. You'll speak with authority, paint vivid pictures of their future vacation, and close the booking with confidence!
The travel industry is crowded. Clients have endless options—they can book directly with Royal Caribbean, use online booking engines, or work with thousands of other agents. What makes them choose YOU? Your expertise, your service, and your ability to create customized experiences that exceed their expectations!
RCU gives you that edge!
Plus, let's not forget the tangible rewards: CLIA credits advancing your professional credentials, bonus commissions padding your income, complimentary WiFi and onboard credits when you sail, priority invitations to FAM trips where you'll explore ships firsthand, and marketing materials that make your business look polished and professional!
But beyond all that, here's what really matters: RCU makes you better at what you do. It gives you knowledge that translates directly into happy clients who return to book with you again and again, referring their friends and family because you made their cruise magical!
So what are you waiting for? Log into CruisingPower.com right now. Start your Campus Tour. Register for Vicki Freed's next Coffee Talk. Download that first Bachelor module and hit play!
Six to eight hours from now, you could be a Royal Caribbean University Master graduate with a whole new level of expertise to offer your clients. Your competition is probably already completing their training—don't fall behind!
The world's most adventurous cruise line is ready to invest in YOUR success. Are you ready to invest in yourself?
Welcome aboard future RCU graduate! Your journey to Royal Caribbean mastery starts today!
