Royal Shell Vacations does not currently classify any of its rentals as fully ADA-compliant. However, some vacation rentals are ground-level or offer elevator access. Accessibility features vary by property, so please contact our Vacation Planning Center before booking to confirm that a rental can accommodate your specific mobility needs.
GENERAL
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Does Royal Shell Vacations offer accessible vacation rentals?
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Is smoking or vaping allowed in Royal Shell vacation rentals?
No. Neither smoking nor vaping is permitted in Royal Shell vacation rentals. Guests should also review the property-specific rules in their rental agreement for any additional restrictions.
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Does Royal Shell Vacations offer pet-friendly vacation rentals?
Yes. Royal Shell Vacations offers a selection of dog-friendly vacation rentals. Pet policies, allowed pet counts, size or breed restrictions, and nonrefundable pet rent vary by property, so review the individual listing before booking.
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Does Royal Shell Vacations offer homes for weddings, reunions, or other events?
Yes. Select Royal Shell vacation homes may allow approved events. Event reservations may require a nonrefundable event fee and a refundable security deposit, with amounts and rules determined by the individual property. All events must be approved before booking or hosting.
AMENITIES
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Is beach equipment included with every Royal Shell vacation rental?
No. Beach chairs, umbrellas, carts, and other beach equipment may be included at some properties, but they are not guaranteed at every rental. Check the amenities listed on the individual property page. Local vendors also offer beach-equipment rentals.
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Are beach towels provided at Royal Shell vacation rentals?
Beach towels are generally provided at beachfront properties and vacation homes with private pools. They may not be included at every rental, so check the individual property listing before arrival. Beach towels can also be rented from local vendors when needed.
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Are bicycles included with Royal Shell vacation rentals?
Bicycles are included at some Royal Shell vacation rentals, but not at every property. Review the amenities on the individual listing to see whether bikes are provided. Bicycle rentals are also available from local vendors in many Southwest Florida destinations.
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Are kayaks or canoes included with Royal Shell vacation rentals?
Kayaks or canoes may be included at select Royal Shell vacation rentals, but water-sports equipment is not standard at every property. Check the individual listing for included equipment. Local vendors offer kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals in many destinations.
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Are bed linens and bath towels provided?
Yes. Royal Shell vacation rentals provide standard bed linens and bath towels. Specialty linens, extra sets, and beach towels may vary by property, so review the listing or contact Royal Shell if you have a specific request.
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Do Royal Shell vacation rentals include pots and pans?
Yes. Vacation-rental kitchens include basic pots and pans for everyday meal preparation. Appliances, specialty cookware, and small kitchen tools vary by property, so contact Royal Shell before arrival if you need a specific item.
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Do Royal Shell vacation rentals have barbecue grills?
Some Royal Shell vacation rentals provide a barbecue grill, but grills are not available at every property. Check the amenities section of the individual listing for the grill type and any property-specific rules.
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Do all Royal Shell vacation rentals have a washer and dryer?
No. Many Royal Shell vacation rentals include an in-unit or shared washer and dryer, but laundry facilities are not guaranteed at every property. Check the individual listing for the exact laundry setup before booking.
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Which resort amenities can Royal Shell guests use?
Resort-amenity access varies by property, resort, and reservation. Before booking a rental at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, South Seas Island Resort, or Sanibel Harbour Resort, review the property listing and the resort-specific amenity information to see what is included, restricted, or available for an additional fee.
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Are cribs or rollaway beds provided?
No. Cribs and rollaway beds are not routinely provided with Royal Shell vacation rentals. Guests who need baby equipment or an additional approved sleep setup should contact Royal Shell before arrival for local rental options and occupancy guidance.
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What is included in the Royal Shell Welcome Starter Kit?
The Royal Shell Welcome Starter Kit is designed to cover basic needs when you arrive. It typically includes two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom; one box of tissues; travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, and soap; one roll of paper towels; two dishwasher pods; dish soap; a scrub pad; trash bags; and two laundry pods when the rental has a washer and dryer. Guests should plan to purchase additional supplies for longer stays.
LOCATION & TRANSPORTATION
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Is parking included with a Royal Shell vacation rental?
Parking at the rental property is complimentary for registered guests, subject to the property's parking limits. Additional parking at a Royal Shell check-in location may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. RVs, boat trailers, travel trailers, and personal watercraft trailers are not permitted at rental properties and must be stored at an approved off-site facility.
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Where can I buy groceries near my Royal Shell vacation rental?
Grocery options depend on your destination. On Sanibel Island, Jerry's Foods of Sanibel is a convenient local option, while Publix and other grocery stores serve many Royal Shell destinations throughout Southwest Florida. Check current store hours and delivery availability before your trip.
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Can I go snorkeling or scuba diving near Sanibel and Captiva?
Yes. Snorkeling and scuba diving are available around Sanibel and Captiva, including offshore artificial reefs. Water clarity and conditions vary, so guests should check local conditions and use a qualified charter or dive operator when appropriate.
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Can long-term visitors buy a Sanibel beach-parking permit?
Sanibel beach-parking permits may be available to qualifying visitors through the City of Sanibel. Eligibility, fees, and application requirements can change, so contact the Sanibel Recreation Center or review the city's current parking information before purchasing a permit.
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How can I pay bridge tolls during my Southwest Florida vacation?
LeeWay offers prepaid toll and transponder options for travel on Lee County toll roads and bridges. Review current LeeWay visitor transponder options before your trip to choose the best payment method for your rental vehicle.
POLICY
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What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in begins at 3:00 p.m. for condominiums and 4:00 p.m. for houses and Jensen's cottages. Check-out is at 10:00 a.m. Your reservation confirmation provides the exact times and arrival instructions for your property.
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How do I check in after the Royal Shell office has closed?
After-hours check-in instructions are provided in your reservation confirmation. Depending on the check-in location, your key packet may be placed in a secure lockbox. Review the emailed instructions before traveling because the lockbox location and access code are specific to your reservation.
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Can I request early check-in or late check-out?
Yes, you may request early check-in or late check-out, but approval is not guaranteed and depends on the property's schedule. An approved late check-out may extend departure to 12:00 p.m. and an additional fee will be charged as follows: Condominiums: $50, Homes: $100. Departures after the approved time may require a full-day charge. Contact Royal Shell for current fees and availability.
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How many pets are allowed in a pet-friendly Royal Shell rental?
The number of dogs you may bring varies by property. The owner and homeowners association may set limits on the number, size, or type of dogs allowed. Review the pet policy on the individual listing and receive approval before adding pets to your reservation.
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Do pet-friendly vacation rentals have breed restrictions?
Some dog-friendly Royal Shell rentals have breed restrictions, while others do not. Restrictions may come from the property owner, homeowners association, or insurance requirements. Confirm the policy for the specific rental before booking.
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How old do I have to be to rent a Royal Shell vacation property?
The primary guest must be at least 25 years old to check in to a Royal Shell vacation rental. Government-issued identification may be required, and the named guest must comply with the rental agreement throughout the stay.
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Will Royal Shell notify guests about hurricane evacuations or other emergencies?
Yes. Royal Shell communicates relevant evacuation and emergency information to affected guests using the contact details associated with the reservation. Guests should also follow official instructions from local emergency-management agencies and keep their phone number and email address up to date.
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What is the vacation-rental damage waiver, and is it refundable?
The damage waiver is a nonrefundable fee that provides up to $3,000 in coverage for eligible accidental damage to the rental during your stay. It is not a security deposit and does not cover intentional damage, negligence, or excluded items. Review the rental agreement for complete terms.
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Can I use my rental property's parking pass at a public beach?
No. A parking pass issued for a Royal Shell rental property cannot be used in public beach-parking areas. Public beaches have their own permit, meter, or payment requirements.
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What is the Royal Shell Vacations cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary by property because Royal Shell owners may select a Flexible, Semi-Flex, or Standard cancellation policy. The policy that applies to your reservation is displayed during booking and included in your rental agreement. Review those terms before confirming your stay.
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Can I book a short stay or arrive on any day of the week?
Yes, select Royal Shell vacation rentals allow short stays or flexible arrival days. Minimum stays and arrival restrictions vary by property, destination, and season, with options ranging from one night to weekly or monthly stays. Enter your exact travel dates to see rentals that match your schedule.
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Can I have visitors at my Royal Shell vacation rental?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed, but you should notify the appropriate Royal Shell office or front desk when required. Visitors must follow all property and community rules and may not stay overnight if doing so would exceed the rental's maximum occupancy.
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Can more guests stay overnight than the property's listed maximum occupancy?
No. The maximum occupancy listed for a Royal Shell vacation rental cannot be exceeded. Occupancy limits apply to all overnight guests and are based on safety requirements, property rules, and local regulations.
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What does vacation travel insurance cover?
Coverage depends on the travel-insurance plan and may include eligible trip cancellation or interruption, baggage delay, emergency assistance, roadside assistance, medical-support services, identity-theft resolution, and concierge services. CSA Travel Insurance also offers a 10-day free look at the policy. If you are not happy with the coverage, you may cancel the policy with a full refund, as long as you have not already left for your trip or filed a claim.
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Will I receive a refund if a hurricane shortens or cancels my stay?
Royal Shell does not automatically issue a refund solely because a hurricane or mandatory evacuation shortens or cancels a stay. Guests who purchased travel insurance may be able to file a claim if the event is covered by their policy. Review your rental agreement and insurance terms for the rules that apply to your reservation.
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What happens if my reserved vacation rental is sold or leaves the Royal Shell program?
Royal Shell will make a reasonable effort to offer a comparable replacement property. If the replacement costs more, the guest is responsible for the difference. If a suitable replacement is unavailable or not accepted under the applicable terms, the guest may receive a full refund.
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Do infants and children count toward maximum occupancy?
Yes. Infants and children count toward the property's maximum occupancy even when they sleep in a crib or share a bed with a parent. Occupancy limits include every overnight guest for safety and regulatory reasons.
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Why do many Sanibel Island vacation homes require monthly stays?
Many Sanibel Island homes require monthly stays to comply with City of Sanibel zoning, rental, and neighborhood rules that limit short-term rentals in certain residential areas. Minimum-stay requirements vary by property, so enter your dates or review the individual listing for the exact restriction.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE POLICIES
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Where do I pick up the keys for my Royal Shell vacation rental?
Pick up your keys or arrival packet at the Royal Shell location listed in your emailed reservation confirmation. Check-in locations vary by destination and property, so use the address and instructions in your confirmation rather than traveling to a general office.
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What should I do if I will arrive late?
Review the late-arrival instructions in your emailed reservation confirmation before traveling. Each check-in location has a different process, which may include a secure lockbox or another after-hours pickup method. Contact Royal Shell in advance if you have not received the instructions.
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Can someone else in my party pick up the keys before I arrive?
Yes. Another member of your family or travel party may pick up the key or welcome packet with advance authorization. Contact Royal Shell with the person's name before arrival. The authorized person must present government-issued identification at pickup.
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What do I need to do before checking out?
Follow the checkout instructions provided for your specific Royal Shell vacation rental. Departure requirements can vary by property, so review the instructions in the home, guest portal, or reservation materials before leaving. Contact guest services if any step is unclear.
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Can I ship a package to Royal Shell before my arrival?
Yes. Contact Royal Shell before shipping anything and send the package to your designated office, addressed to Royal Shell c/o the primary guest's name and reservation number. The office can note the expected delivery on your reservation. A fee may apply if Royal Shell delivers the package to the rental.
GUEST SERVICES
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Is daily housekeeping included with my Royal Shell stay?
No. Daily housekeeping is not included with a standard Royal Shell vacation-rental stay. Additional cleaning or housekeeping may be available through an outside vendor for an added cost. Request the service in advance because availability varies.
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What are Royal Shell Vacations' office hours?
Royal Shell offices are generally open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Emergency assistance for in-house guests is available after hours through the on-call team. Check your confirmation or the Royal Shell website for the current hours and emergency contact instructions.
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Do Royal Shell guests receive a rental-car discount?
Royal Shell may offer guests a preferred discount with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Review the current guest benefits or contact Royal Shell for the active booking link, discount amount, and eligibility requirements.
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Does Royal Shell provide airport transportation or shuttle service?
No. Royal Shell does not operate an airport shuttle. Rideshare companies, taxis, private car services, and local transportation providers are available for an additional cost. Guests should arrange transportation directly with the provider.
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Can groceries be delivered to my vacation rental before I arrive?
Yes, grocery delivery may be available depending on the destination and provider. Guests staying on Sanibel or Captiva may be able to arrange delivery through local stores such as Jerry's Foods of Sanibel or Bailey's General Store. Provide the store with your reservation information and coordinate with Royal Shell before scheduling a pre-arrival delivery.
PRICING & PAYMENTS
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Can I add travel insurance to my Royal Shell reservation?
Yes. Optional travel insurance can be added for an additional cost based on the reservation total. Under the current policy, it must be purchased before the final balance is paid. Review the available plan, price, coverage, and purchase deadline before adding it.
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Which credit cards does Royal Shell Vacations accept?
Royal Shell Vacations accepts major credit cards for reservation payments. The available payment methods are shown during booking or can be confirmed with the Vacation Planning Center.
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Can I pay for my vacation rental by check or e-check?
Yes. Royal Shell accepts personal checks, money orders, and e-checks for eligible final payments. Payment-method availability may depend on the reservation timing, so follow the instructions and due date shown in your confirmation.
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Where should I mail a check for my Royal Shell reservation?
Make the check payable to Royal Shell Vacations and include the reservation number. Mail it to the corporate office address listed in your payment instructions:
Royal Shell Vacations, Inc.
7290 College Parkway, Suite 400
Fort Myers, FL 33907 -
When is the final payment due for a Royal Shell vacation rental?
The final payment is generally due 30 or 60 days before arrival, depending on the reservation total and length of stay. Last-minute reservations made within the final payment window may be due in full at booking. Your confirmation and rental agreement show the exact due date.
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Are all taxes and fees shown before I book?
Yes. Required taxes and fees are included in the grand total shown before you confirm the reservation. Review the itemized price summary and rental agreement so you understand the rent, taxes, fees, optional add-ons, and payment schedule.
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Does Royal Shell require a refundable security deposit?
Most standard Royal Shell reservations do not require a refundable security deposit. Instead, guests pay a nonrefundable damage waiver that provides up to $3,000 in coverage for eligible accidental damage. Select event homes or other properties may require a separate refundable security deposit, so review the terms for the specific rental.