On-board Wonder of the Seas!

Written by Sally White, Marketing Director

I was lucky enough to have spent some time on-board Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship in the Oasis Class and now the largest cruise ship not only in their fleet but in the world!

Royal Caribbean has set out to deliver in their words “the best vacation on the planet”, and, after experiencing just a fraction of what Wonder of the Seas has to offer in the two days I was on-board, I have to say I think they may have succeeded!

It is clear to see what Wonder of the Seas delivers for children with the thrills and spills that are synonymous with Royal Caribbean. The ship has enough fun to keep big and little kids busy for the duration of their holiday. The top deck has waterslides, splash parks, the FlowRider, two swimming pools and a crazy golf course!

And, for those that fancy a slower pace of life watching the world go by, you can grab a cocktail from the Lime and Coconut Bar and position yourself in one of the hot tubs to listen to the house band. I must admit, this was my afternoon of choice!

To get the children out of the mid-day sunshine they can race down the Ultimate Abyss slide onto the boardwalk where they will then find two climbing walls to keep them busy. Or, for children of all ages, there are numerous kid’s clubs available, all kitted out with the latest tech for the gamers or art stations for some fun creativity.

All of this means that the parents can relax and get a chance to enjoy some me-time. Whether this is a trip to the brand-new spa or gym, watching a match at the Playmakers Sports Bar or enjoying a Starbucks coffee and a browse on the Royal Promenade’s shops. It is easy to see how a few hours could easily disappear.

For those fancying a little quiet time whilst the grandchildren play elsewhere, there is the temperature-controlled adults-only Solarium. Positioned at the front of the ship, this tranquil space is furnished with comfortable sun loungers and numerous pools to cool off. Fancy a drink or a bite to eat, there is no need to venture too far as the Solarium Bistro has everything you would need.

I could not write about a cruise experience on Wonder of the Seas without mentioning the food and drink. Whatever your tastes there is something for everyone on board. For lunch, how about relaxed Mexican dining at El Loco Fresh; a sandwich at the Central Park Café or take your pick at the well-loved Windjammer?

I heard many people remark on how successful the evolution of the Windjammer concept had been on board Wonder of the Seas. The restaurant is split between the two sides of the ship which means that there is now plenty of space without the feeling of an ever-expanding food hall. We were treated to a buffet that included a huge selection of seafood. A great start to our time on-board.

On our first night, we dined in the main dining room, positioned over three floors. Again, Royal Caribbean has managed to segment the restaurant into different zones with plush furnishings, and it really feels like a premium dining experience. I enjoyed the classic French onion soup and New York strip steak that are long-standing crowd-pleasers, and it is clear to see why.

On our second night, we were lucky enough to be invited to dine at 150 Central Park and as we stepped out into the green outside space of Central Park it really felt like we were stepping out for dinner. Royal Caribbean has managed to create a different feel in this area of the ship, the Caribbean band and tropical vibe of the top deck are replaced with a more tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere.

As we headed into the restaurant it was clear we were in for a treat. The menu is compiled of options including scallops, lobster thermidor, fillet of beef, and lamb wellington. The only difficult part of the whole evening was what to choose. For me, it was the beef rib starter, followed by the lobster, and I have to say the lobster was the best I have had in a very, very long time. Sweet, soft and enrobed in garlic butter. It was delicious.

Also situated in Central Park were Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Italian which also looked like they would work equally well in the park surroundings, both of these restaurants offered outside dining, which on a warm Mediterranean evening would be wonderful.

After a busy day and delicious dinner, what more to top off the day than some show-stopping entertainment. From an Ice Spectacular to the Grand Theatre and the AquaTheater Show. Wonder of the Seas offered the wow factor. Without giving too much away for those lucky enough to be travelling this summer, expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat in the AquaTheater show with real-life mermaids flying through the water and from the sky.

Fancy something a little more subdued? Then, no matter where you visit, be it Boleros or the Schooner Bar, you will be entertained by world-class musicians and vocalists.

So, does this make it the best holiday on the planet? Well, when combined with a different port of call every day and the chance to see some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful cities and coastlines, I have to say that I am not sure what could top it!

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