Currently the newest ship in Royal Caribbean‘s Oasis Class fleet, the Harmony of the Seas is bigger and bolder in comparison to its sister ships, the Oasis and the Allure of the Seas. It is currently world’s largest cruise ship, with unique features like the Ultimate Abyss which is the tallest slide at sea, an Escape Room where game players solve puzzles together, and for single cruisers, the Harmony has cabins specially designed for solo travellers. Our Flightie and Travel Expert Tabatha Bennett did not travel solo but with a family of five in tow on a vacation aboard the Harmony of the Seas for her inaugural sailing. Here are her highlights:
Let’s talk ships. More specifically, the biggest one of them all! This last month, I had the opportunity to join the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas and let me tell you, it was outstanding.
I travelled with my three kids, ages six, eight, and 20. The appeal to a wide demographic onboard made sure that there was something to keep everyone happy and entertained.
Starting from the embarkation process, the experience was smooth, well-organized, and efficient. I consider this a massive plus – no long lines which is an open invitation for kids to get bored and antsy. The moment you board, the fun really begins. Roam around Central Park for the picturesque greenery, cafes, and photo ops, or hit the boardwalk to explore, play at the arcade, and maybe enjoy a milkshake at Johnny Rockets.
For your days at sea, you couldn’t ask for more optional activities. The kids club is separated into age groups – from teens to tots; each is designed to cater to their respective interests and activities. What separates this from other cruise lines primarily is the extensive science lab, kids theatre, family workshop, and art room. Movie nights and character breakfasts with the Dreamworks gang can round out your day. If that’s not enough, your days can be filled with quality time together as a family. Try the rock climbing walls, mini-golf, basketball court, waterslides, water park for the younguns and a gargantuan slide called the Abyss takes you down 10 decks. Nothing says bonding like a competition of plummeting down pitch black spiral slides. Travel tip: stay IN the bag you use to slide down. And I mean all the way, or you’ll end up with some wicked metal burn! When those things aren’t enough, have a go at the Flow Rider surf simulator, take a spin on the carousel and zipline over the boardwalk 15 stories up! It’s over in a flash but still exhilarating! And don’t worry, there’s someone to catch you on the other side!
For something more low-key relax poolside or have a soak in the hot tub. If you’re looking for a little more R&R, explore all that the extensive spa has to offer, all the while comforted that your kids are having just as much fun as you are in the Adventure Ocean Club with fully licensed professional childcare givers.
And finally, book your cruise early to secure the early dining option. This is possibly one of my favourite features on board is the ability to have a nice, relaxing meal. C’mon all you parents out there – how blissful is it to have a quiet dinner when you have wee ones? Bliss. Just bliss! Upon arrival to the dining room, your young children will be fed while you enjoy a beverage. When they have finished, a member from the kids club will come escort your littles back to the Adventure Ocean Club. Don’t get me wrong, I want to spend my family vacation with my family…but to the have the option of a ‘date night’ on the cruise is pretty darn appealing. Since the dining room stays open until 10 p.m., this means that adults can also enjoy some entertainment. We checked out the Comedy Club and the theatre for an incredible production of Grease, the Musical. And you cannot miss the Aqua Theater, an open-air theatre show that will blow your mind. If that’s not enough, there is a magnificent ice show with a surprise right smack in the middle of the show. I mustn’t say too much… but it’s extraordinary. Think bubbles and smoke…a very wonderful kind of strange!
Royal Caribbean prides itself on being a family cruise experience and they truly deliver. If you want an opportunity to visit multiple destinations in the Caribbean, enjoy the best floating resort out there and create some unforgettable family memories and moments, think Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas. You will be not be disappointed!
For more information, you can connect with Tabatha online, visit her in-store, or call 1-866-914-3919.