Royal Caribbean recently held the naming ceremony for the largest passenger ship in the world, Symphony of the Seas. And since its debut in America, travelers have been raving about all the amenities the ship has to offer. With so much to choose from, you may want to select an itinerary that allows you more days at sea to try to experience them all.
Symphony of the Seas comes with all the now-normal cruise ship features: a wellness spa, fitness center, track around the mid-ship, kid’s center, video arcade, casino, shops, shows, upper deck pools and superb buffets. All of these amenities are done well in true Royal Caribbean fashion, but it’s really all the extras that have guests flipping for this ship.
The ship holds not one, but four different venues for shows. Be sure to catch the celebrated Hairspray production in the Royal Theatre, a comedy show in The Attic, a spectacular ice show at Studio B Ice Rink or the famed HiRo at the Aquatheater located at the rear of the ship. You’ll be mesmerized as acrobats dive off Olympic-level diving boards, performing spellbinding stunts and acrobatics.
But if shows aren’t really your thing, or you have little ones that can’t sit still, then venture to one of the multitudes of other entertainment areas. On the upper deck, there are three different water slides to choose from where you can race your friends on one of the enclosed tunnel slides or get turned around in the funnel-shaped slide. And there are plenty of pools to choose from, so it does not feel crowded. There’s even a kid’s splash zone for the little ones.
If you’d rather not get wet, then take the ultimate dare and slide down The Abyss, a ten-story mat slide located at the very back of the boat. The creator wanted to make a slide that would intimidate his son, and I have to admit, I was second-guessing whether I wanted to venture down this slide.
Plus, after an exhilarating ride, you land at the Boardwalk, with a carousel, hot dog stand, Johnny Rockets and candy shop. There’s even a sports bar if you to catch up on all the latest games. For the more adventurous ones, there are two towering rock-climbing walls positioned at the back of the boat. Climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the sea.
Heading back to the top decks you’ll find a mini golf course where you can challenge your friends to a friendly—or not so friendly—game; two Flowriders where you can learn how to surf (just make sure to make an extra big splash for any spectators when you do fall); a basketball court; and the celebrated zip line where you can sail over the Boardwalk.
It’s easy to work up an appetite with so many fun activities, but there is also a restaurant where you can grab a quick bite. If you’re shopping at the Royal Promenade, check out Sorrentos for pizza and delicious cured meats. There’s also an English pub and the renowned Bionic Bar, where a robotic arm will make your drink for you.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale with more intimate dining than the Main Dining Room, head over to Central Park on Deck Eight, which offers outdoor cafe-style seating surrounded by lush greenery. Here you’ll find Jamie’s Italian, Jamie Oliver’s own restaurant, or you can indulge at Chops Grille for a delicious steak. Just be sure to make your reservation ahead of time as they cannot normally accommodate walk-ins.
The Main Dining Room offers its own delectable spread with sit-down dining and some of the best cheesecake I have ever had. I’m still jealous of my husband’s order of the filet mignon though.
If you’re towards the top decks there are plenty of other options for quick bites from a Mexican influenced taco bar El Loco Fresh to the quintessential cruise buffet with something for everyone at Windjammer Marketplace.
With so much to do and an array of mouthwatering eateries, the staterooms offer a welcome reprieve. Most staterooms come with their own balcony either overlooking the Boardwalk—perfect for people watching—or giving you beautiful views of the sea. Catch the sunrise from your private balcony or leave the door open so you can fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
As an added bonus, since Symphony of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s elite line of cruise ships, starting May 2019, guests will have the option to spend the perfect day at Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island with pristine beaches and a thrilling water park. Relax at the swim-up bar or chill out in your own overwater cabana. This island is designed to have something for everyone.
Currently, Symphony of the Seas has itineraries based out of Miami, FL with seven-night trips sailing to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. And with so many offers, now is the time to book your next cruise.