Imagine the most unforgettable Bahamian sailing where adventure and relaxation reach the max. That daydream can turn to reality with Royal Caribbean's 3- and 4-night cruises from multiple Florida ports. I recently returned from a weekend getaway aboard the Independence of the Seas and could not be more excited to showcase this vessel.
The Independence of the Seas launched back in May of 2008 but underwent a 900-million-dollar amplification in 2018. This amplification brought many new attractions and a few new venues to the 15-deck ship. In addition, Independence debuted as the final ship in the Freedom Class. The vessel can carry up to 4,560 people and weighs an astonishing 154,407 gross registered tons. Currently, Independence sails short Bahamian voyages from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Nassau, Bahamas, with a sea day on the 4-night runs.
ONBOARD ATTRACTIONS:
For starters, let's discuss the onboard attractions. Without a doubt, Independence has a taste of everything for thrill-seekers. The staples since the ship debuted would be the FlowRider surf simulator, the rock-climbing wall, and in Studio B, the ice-skating rink. Following the amplification, the vessel received the Perfect Storm Waterslides, Sky Pad, and The Observatorium, also known as the ship's escape room. Sky Pad is a virtual reality bungee jumping experience that lets you experience various games with a virtual reality headset while bouncing on a trampoline. The last added attraction was Battle for Planet Z, the laser tag adventure. Unfortunately, laser tag and the escape room were not offered on our three-night sailing, due to staffing issues, these experiences are now available on all sailings.
ONBOARD DINING:
Something everyone looks forward to is dining. Aboard Independence, there are ten different dining options. It would be nearly impossible to experience each dining venue on these short sailings. The complimentary options are:
Sorrento's pizza.
The Windjammer buffet.
Café Promenade for quick grab-and-go bites.
The three-story Main Dining Room.
Specialty restaurants are also an excellent option for guests who wish to elevate their dining experience. You can't go wrong from Chops Grille, the signature steakhouse, to Giovanni's Table for classic Italian dishes. In addition, Playmakers Sports Bar and Fish and Ships would be perfect for a more casual specialty option. Lastly, I can't forget to mention Johnny Rockets and Izumi Hibachi and Sushi.
ONBOARD ACCOMMODATIONS:
Of the 1,929 staterooms onboard on this sailing, I chose a balcony stateroom. It was much like your standard cruise cabin, but to my surprise, the balcony was a bit larger than what I had initially expected. Something to take note of is there are only two US power outlets in the cabin. This ship was built prior to 2010, so you will not find USB outlets in these staterooms. The vessel boasts other accommodation options such as :
Interiors
Promenade Interiors
Oceanviews
Balconies
A wide variety of Suites
ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT:
Entertainment onboard will blow people's minds from the constant parties showering the ship to live musicians, and do not forget, "Grease is the word". Enjoy the classic GREASE broadway production in the Royal Theater! There was always an abundance of activities to keep everyone occupied, such as game shows, bingo, and trivia. Taking a stroll down the Royal Promenade in the late evening is the best way to taste all the live entertainment that floods the ship.
Finally, a cruise vacation is what you make of it. So, cruise-goers can have their days packed with activities, or they can relax by the poolside. The Vitality at Sea Spa is an excellent location for those who need help winding down. The fitness center allows you to keep up with your exercise routine to stay fit and healthy while at sea.
As seen above, the Independence of the Seas has a little bit of everything for each cruise goer. I would recommend this ship to anyone looking for that rejuvenating memory-making vacation while taking off as little time as possible.
Have you sailed on the Independence of the Seas? What was your favorite venue or activity onboard? What would you look forward to the most?