Accessing your cruise's stateroom on Shabbos


I discussed previously the items concerning when embarking or disembarking the ship on Shabbos. Once you are on board your issues are far from over.

The doors to your stateroom, just like any hotel door, are operated by a key card, which uses electronics and therefore cannot be used on Shabbos. You can also not specifically ask a non-Jew to open them for you on Shabbos (however you may be able to hint at it).

One big advantage, which you don’t have with a hotel, is your stateroom attendant has a relationship with you, and they get to know you over the course of the vacation. The best thing to do is explain to your stateroom attendant before Shabbos the situation (they all know about it, so they won’t be confused). Then when they see you coming on Shabbos they will know to open the door for you without even being asked. If they do not see you, and you can find them, they will gladly drop everything and help you out.

I have heard of other people going to Guest Services and asking to be let in as well, but that just seems unnecessary to me, unless its late at night. If for some reason you do not see your stateroom attendant, just simply hint to anyone who does not look Jewish that is walking by to let you in. Something as simple as “excuse me, its my Sabbath so I cannot operate the door myself today” will almost always prompt a “oh, do you need me to do it” type response, and you are all set.

Royal Caribbean now offers on select ship “WOW Bands”. These bands contain an RFID chip that can be used to unlock your stateroom, make purchases on-board and to access lounges. These as well use electronics in order to unlock your door, and therefore still cannot be used. You may want to keep this in mind when deciding whether not to spend the $4.99 on the band.

Princess has announced recently that they are testing new Medallions, which are similar to Royal Caribbean’s WOW Bands. These Medallions can be used as watches, necklaces or clipped onto clothing. No matter which method you use to utilize for your Medallions, they still cannot be used on Shabbos.


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