Latest news with #OvationOfTheSeas
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
This West Coast–based Cruise Ship Is Perfect for Family Vacations—but Doesn't Skimp on Luxury
Ovation of the Seas brings exciting onboard attractions like indoor skydiving and bumper cars to the West Coast, for journeys along Mexico's Baja California. Royal Suite Class accommodations have spacious, luxe living spaces and come with VIP privileges. A solid mix of free and extra-fee restaurants give guests plenty of choice, even on longer sailings. Ideal for multigenerational groups, Ovation of the Seas delivers a combination of kids- and adults-only attractions and tons of all-ages entertainment.'I'm going roller skating at the SeaPlex,' my brother texted me. 'I'll meet you at 11 a.m. for indoor skydiving.' 'OK,' I messaged back. 'We can climb the rock wall while we wait.' It's not the kind of exchange I'd expect to have in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on the way from Los Angeles to Mexico—but this ship was no old-school Love Boat. Specifically, we were aboard Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas, which since June has been based in southern California. Its arrival means West Coasters, like my brother, can now enjoy the many mind-boggling attractions the line has pioneered without flying across the country to board one of the latest and greatest. Things like robot bartenders, a remarkable sightseeing capsule that rises on a 300-foot-long mechanical arm, and an extensive array of exciting activities are now available within driving distance. Royal Caribbean has a knack for creating ships that cater to all ages and vacation vibes, and Ovation of the Seas strikes the right balance with active all-ages fun, kid-friendly play areas, and vibrant nightlife. It's the perfect ship for a multigenerational family vacation or group trip. We should have brought the rest of our family. Had we turned the cruise into a reunion, my teenage son and nephew would have spent hours in the SeaPlex, an indoor gaming space with bumper cars, roller skating, pickleball, foosball, Xbox—and a strategically placed hot dog stand. Our parents would have staked out a spot at one of the several pools when my mom wasn't killing it at trivia in the Schooner Bar. My sister-in-law would have found her happy place in the gym, with its expansive sea views; my 11-year-old daughter would have loved the science lab in the kids' club. But not all families want to brave the crowds of a mega-ship. And Ovation of the Seas certainly qualifies, with 2,091 cabins and a maximum guest capacity of 4,900. But Royal Caribbean has an answer for that with its Royal Suite Class. Guests who book these accommodations get VIP treatment: access to a private lounge, sun deck, and restaurant; skip-the-line privileges; and other perks including free specialty dining, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Families can insulate themselves—while still enjoying the high-energy onboard fun—in luxe loft suites with two-deck-high glass walls, oversized private balconies, and upscale living spaces, as well as two-bedroom, one-level suites that can sleep up to eight. As it was, my brother and I were perfectly fine having zero familial responsibilities, choosing a different restaurant for dinner each night, wandering between shows and bars, and passing the time on our balcony with some good books. We didn't even mind sharing a room. For more on the fun that awaits on Ovation of the Seas, here's my review of the staterooms, restaurants, and onboard attractions of the newest mega-ship to hit the California coast. I stayed in a balcony stateroom, the most commonly booked room type on the ship, and it felt roomy with enough storage for all of our belongings. The minimalist decor wasn't particularly exciting, but it made the cabin feel calm and uncluttered. Royal Caribbean has several options when it comes to suites. The Sea, Sky, and Star categories deliver, in order, an increasing number of perks: a private restaurant, concierge lounge, and sun deck; expedited boarding and disembarking; dining and drinks packages; free Wi-Fi. Solo travelers can choose from two types of rooms specifically designed for single occupancy, with no surcharge. Studio Ocean View Balcony rooms feature a full-size bed and a private balcony, while Studio Interior rooms offer a 'virtual balcony,' an LED screen that broadcasts live footage from outside the ship to create the impression of a window. On the other hand, if you want to stay in a showstopper, Ovation of the Seas has some lavish, light-filled Loft Suites that span two floors and sleep up to six. Owner's and Grand Suites, meanwhile, accommodate up to eight. These high-end options have expansive private balconies (some with hot tubs and dining tables), in-suite living areas spacious enough to entertain, and oversized bathrooms, some with sea-view showers. Ovation of the Seas has 15 dining venues, a mix of casual complimentary spots and extra-fee restaurants focused on a specific cuisine. Among the latter, Jamie's Italian was our favorite, with a menu by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. A friend recommended the chicken parm, but I indulged in all the dishes featuring truffles: arancini, burrata, and tagliatelle. I also enjoyed Wonderland, where the molecular gastronomy—and playful platings—had us grinning like the Cheshire Cat. I was impressed with the buffet offerings (I'm a sucker for Indian breakfast dishes) and found Cafe Two70 to be a hidden gem at lunchtime. Its salad bowls and famous Kummelweck roast beef sandwich were both excellent. Sorrento's pizza was not my favorite, but the smell of baking pies was certainly enchanting after a night listening to live music at the Amber & Oak Pub next door. Suite guests have exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen for all three meals, where the food is several notches above the all-access dining rooms. Royal Caribbean has been modernizing its bar menus with craft cocktails that go beyond the expected. Among the ship's 11 bars, the Schooner Bar is popular for trivia by day and piano singalongs by night. Boleros is always packed with the Latin dance crowd, though I was digging the three-piece band playing '80s covers one evening. The Bionic Bar isn't the most inviting space, but it's fun to watch the robot bartenders mix what tend to be sweet, fruity drinks. Ovation of the Seas will sail three- to eight-night Mexico cruises from the Port of Los Angeles through the summer of 2025, and will return again from September 2026 through at least April 2027. Shorter cruises visit Ensenada and Catalina Island, and longer sailings overnight in Cabo San Lucas for two or three days. (The nearly identical sibling ship Quantum of the Seas will sail from L.A. while Ovation is away.) In between, the ship will cross the Pacific where it will be based mainly in Singapore, cruising to Malaysia and Thailand. In spring 2026, it will return to North America to offer one-way weeklong sailings between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska. These cruises can be extended with land tours to places like Denali, Homer, and Fairbanks. On a short, three-night cruise, I had a tough choice to make: book a tour that would take up most of my day in port or spend more time on the ship. I opted for the latter to enjoy the lack of crowds in the adults-only Solarium, and headed out with my brother on our own in Ensenada for an hour or two. It's quick and easy to walk along the harbor and into town; you can also get a shuttle from the port for a few dollars. There, you can shop for souvenirs, order up fish tacos, or enjoy a truly Mexican margarita. If you'd rather explore farther afield, the ship offers a variety of excursions for all interests and activity levels. The area around Ensenada is becoming more known for its wineries, and several tour options can take you to the vineyards. There are also plenty of food and tequila tours, while those interested in active adventures can try hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, and kayaking. One of Royal Caribbean's calling cards is entertainment, and Ovation of the Seas has many onboard attractions that aren't found on other ships sailing from southern California. My brother and I set out to try as many as we could, starting with bumper cars and roller skating before moving on to iFly indoor skydiving and the rock-climbing wall. We were too chicken to try boogie boarding or surfing on the FlowRider surf simulator, but we did brave the North Star, a glass-enclosed sightseeing pod attached to a mechanical arm that rises 300 feet above the ship then swings slowly out over the ocean. Two70 is a tiered observation lounge by day and high-tech performance space at night, complete with video screens on robotic arms. The high-tech, creative sets and props got two thumbs up from us—but the loose plot threads earned more of a confused shrug. Nightlife centers along decks 4 and 5, between the ship's theaters and main dining rooms. The Music Hall was popular for its cover bands and large dance floor, but we preferred the pub next door with its talented singer-guitarist. The pool deck is ideal for warm-weather departures like the ones Ovation of the Seas operates, with an outdoor pool and little kid water play area; there's a second covered pool for cool or rainy days. I could have spent all day in the adults-only Solarium with its cascading plunge pools and hot tubs; I arrived early to snag a lounge chair. We found the fitness center to be fairly quiet in the late afternoon when folks were getting ready for early-seating dinner. At the spa, one deck below, you can plan your own pamper party with a treatment or visit the windowless thermal suite. Walkers and joggers made use of the running track on the top deck, and the SeaPlex has a daily schedule of pickleball. One additional thing to note about the onboard amenities: Royal Caribbean announced in June that it would renovate Ovation of the Seas in 2026. Among the changes to expect: Jamie's Italian will be replaced by Giovanni's Italian Kitchen. The Bionic Bar will become the Pesky Parrot tiki bar. Izumi, the ship's sushi restaurant, will add hibachi cooking. New accommodations, including the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite, will be added. The casino will grow in size. At-extra-cost casitas will be added on the pool deck. Part of me regretted not bringing my kids on this cruise because they would have loved the ship. (But the majority of me was grateful for adult time!) Ovation of the Seas caters to kids aged 6 months to 17 years with a drop-off nursery; a two-story, multiroom kids club for supervised activities for children 3 to 11; and a chill hangout and lively dance club for teens 12 to 17. With the exception of the extra-fee nursery, youth activities are free from morning until fairly late at night. But kids don't have to be sent 'away' to have fun. A water play area for kids in diapers is a rare find on cruise ships, while the SeaPlex, arcade, and rock wall will keep older kids entertained. The pizza/hot dog/fried chicken venues were staples for many kids on my sailing. And I would have overlooked the pool deck's soft-serve ice cream machine but for the line of kids waiting out in the sun for cool treats. Ovation of the Seas has 33 wheelchair accessible cabins across inside, ocean-view, balcony, and suite categories. They have features such as roll-in showers, ramped or flat thresholds, and lowered closet rods. The ship also has amenities for hearing- and visually impaired travelers. Accessible public bathrooms are found throughout the ship, and the main pool and hot tub have lifts. The North Star is wheelchair-friendly, with an elevator to the loading platform and a ramp into the sightseeing pod itself. In addition, the ship's tenders are designed so wheelchairs can roll onto them. The kids club on Ovation of the Seas has staff members that are specifically trained to work with kids with autism spectrum disorder. Royal Caribbean offers detailed information about 'autism friendly ships' on its website. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
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Travel + Leisure
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Travel + Leisure
This West Coast–based Cruise Ship Is Perfect for Family Vacations—but Doesn't Skimp on Luxury
Ovation of the Seas Ovation of the Seas brings exciting onboard attractions like indoor skydiving and bumper cars to the West Coast, for journeys along Mexico's Baja California. Royal Suite Class accommodations have spacious, luxe living spaces and come with VIP privileges. A solid mix of free and extra-fee restaurants give guests plenty of choice, even on longer sailings. Ideal for multigenerational groups, Ovation of the Seas delivers a combination of kids- and adults-only attractions and tons of all-ages entertainment. 'I'm going roller skating at the SeaPlex,' my brother texted me. 'I'll meet you at 11 a.m. for indoor skydiving.' 'OK,' I messaged back. 'We can climb the rock wall while we wait.' It's not the kind of exchange I'd expect to have in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on the way from Los Angeles to Mexico—but this ship was no old-school Love Boat. Specifically, we were aboard Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas, which since June has been based in southern California. Its arrival means West Coasters, like my brother, can now enjoy the many mind-boggling attractions the line has pioneered without flying across the country to board one of the latest and greatest. Things like robot bartenders, a remarkable sightseeing capsule that rises on a 300-foot-long mechanical arm, and an extensive array of exciting activities are now available within driving distance. Royal Caribbean has a knack for creating ships that cater to all ages and vacation vibes, and Ovation of the Seas strikes the right balance with active all-ages fun, kid-friendly play areas, and vibrant nightlife. It's the perfect ship for a multigenerational family vacation or group trip. We should have brought the rest of our family. Had we turned the cruise into a reunion, my teenage son and nephew would have spent hours in the SeaPlex, an indoor gaming space with bumper cars, roller skating, pickleball, foosball, Xbox—and a strategically placed hot dog stand. Our parents would have staked out a spot at one of the several pools when my mom wasn't killing it at trivia in the Schooner Bar. My sister-in-law would have found her happy place in the gym, with its expansive sea views; my 11-year-old daughter would have loved the science lab in the kids' club. But not all families want to brave the crowds of a mega-ship. And Ovation of the Seas certainly qualifies, with 2,091 cabins and a maximum guest capacity of 4,900. But Royal Caribbean has an answer for that with its Royal Suite Class. Guests who book these accommodations get VIP treatment: access to a private lounge, sun deck, and restaurant; skip-the-line privileges; and other perks including free specialty dining, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Families can insulate themselves—while still enjoying the high-energy onboard fun—in luxe loft suites with two-deck-high glass walls, oversized private balconies, and upscale living spaces, as well as two-bedroom, one-level suites that can sleep up to eight. As it was, my brother and I were perfectly fine having zero familial responsibilities, choosing a different restaurant for dinner each night, wandering between shows and bars, and passing the time on our balcony with some good books. We didn't even mind sharing a room. For more on the fun that awaits on Ovation of the Seas, here's my review of the staterooms, restaurants, and onboard attractions of the newest mega-ship to hit the California coast. The Staterooms The views from an Ultimate Panoramic Suite. Michel Verdure/Royal Caribbean I stayed in a balcony stateroom, the most commonly booked room type on the ship, and it felt roomy with enough storage for all of our belongings. The minimalist decor wasn't particularly exciting, but it made the cabin feel calm and uncluttered. Royal Caribbean has several options when it comes to suites. The Sea, Sky, and Star categories deliver, in order, an increasing number of perks: a private restaurant, concierge lounge, and sun deck; expedited boarding and disembarking; dining and drinks packages; free Wi-Fi. Solo travelers can choose from two types of rooms specifically designed for single occupancy, with no surcharge. Studio Ocean View Balcony rooms feature a full-size bed and a private balcony, while Studio Interior rooms offer a 'virtual balcony,' an LED screen that broadcasts live footage from outside the ship to create the impression of a window. On the other hand, if you want to stay in a showstopper, Ovation of the Seas has some lavish, light-filled Loft Suites that span two floors and sleep up to six. Owner's and Grand Suites, meanwhile, accommodate up to eight. These high-end options have expansive private balconies (some with hot tubs and dining tables), in-suite living areas spacious enough to entertain, and oversized bathrooms, some with sea-view showers. Bars and Restaurants Ovation of the Seas has 15 dining venues, a mix of casual complimentary spots and extra-fee restaurants focused on a specific cuisine. Among the latter, Jamie's Italian was our favorite, with a menu by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. A friend recommended the chicken parm, but I indulged in all the dishes featuring truffles: arancini, burrata, and tagliatelle. I also enjoyed Wonderland, where the molecular gastronomy—and playful platings—had us grinning like the Cheshire Cat. I was impressed with the buffet offerings (I'm a sucker for Indian breakfast dishes) and found Cafe Two70 to be a hidden gem at lunchtime. Its salad bowls and famous Kummelweck roast beef sandwich were both excellent. Sorrento's pizza was not my favorite, but the smell of baking pies was certainly enchanting after a night listening to live music at the Amber & Oak Pub next door. Suite guests have exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen for all three meals, where the food is several notches above the all-access dining rooms. Royal Caribbean has been modernizing its bar menus with craft cocktails that go beyond the expected. Among the ship's 11 bars, the Schooner Bar is popular for trivia by day and piano singalongs by night. Boleros is always packed with the Latin dance crowd, though I was digging the three-piece band playing '80s covers one evening. The Bionic Bar isn't the most inviting space, but it's fun to watch the robot bartenders mix what tend to be sweet, fruity drinks. Where Ovation of the Seas Sails Ovation of the Seas will sail three- to eight-night Mexico cruises from the Port of Los Angeles through the summer of 2025, and will return again from September 2026 through at least April 2027. Shorter cruises visit Ensenada and Catalina Island, and longer sailings overnight in Cabo San Lucas for two or three days. (The nearly identical sibling ship Quantum of the Seas will sail from L.A. while Ovation is away.) In between, the ship will cross the Pacific where it will be based mainly in Singapore, cruising to Malaysia and Thailand. In spring 2026, it will return to North America to offer one-way weeklong sailings between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska. These cruises can be extended with land tours to places like Denali, Homer, and Fairbanks. Shore Excursions On a short, three-night cruise, I had a tough choice to make: book a tour that would take up most of my day in port or spend more time on the ship. I opted for the latter to enjoy the lack of crowds in the adults-only Solarium, and headed out with my brother on our own in Ensenada for an hour or two. It's quick and easy to walk along the harbor and into town; you can also get a shuttle from the port for a few dollars. There, you can shop for souvenirs, order up fish tacos, or enjoy a truly Mexican margarita. If you'd rather explore farther afield, the ship offers a variety of excursions for all interests and activity levels. The area around Ensenada is becoming more known for its wineries, and several tour options can take you to the vineyards. There are also plenty of food and tequila tours, while those interested in active adventures can try hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, and kayaking. Amenities and Entertainment One of Royal Caribbean's calling cards is entertainment, and Ovation of the Seas has many onboard attractions that aren't found on other ships sailing from southern California. My brother and I set out to try as many as we could, starting with bumper cars and roller skating before moving on to iFly indoor skydiving and the rock-climbing wall. We were too chicken to try boogie boarding or surfing on the FlowRider surf simulator, but we did brave the North Star, a glass-enclosed sightseeing pod attached to a mechanical arm that rises 300 feet above the ship then swings slowly out over the ocean. Two70 is a tiered observation lounge by day and high-tech performance space at night, complete with video screens on robotic arms. The high-tech, creative sets and props got two thumbs up from us—but the loose plot threads earned more of a confused shrug. Nightlife centers along decks 4 and 5, between the ship's theaters and main dining rooms. The Music Hall was popular for its cover bands and large dance floor, but we preferred the pub next door with its talented singer-guitarist. The pool deck is ideal for warm-weather departures like the ones Ovation of the Seas operates, with an outdoor pool and little kid water play area; there's a second covered pool for cool or rainy days. I could have spent all day in the adults-only Solarium with its cascading plunge pools and hot tubs; I arrived early to snag a lounge chair. We found the fitness center to be fairly quiet in the late afternoon when folks were getting ready for early-seating dinner. At the spa, one deck below, you can plan your own pamper party with a treatment or visit the windowless thermal suite. Walkers and joggers made use of the running track on the top deck, and the SeaPlex has a daily schedule of pickleball. One additional thing to note about the onboard amenities: Royal Caribbean announced in June that it would renovate Ovation of the Seas in 2026. Among the changes to expect: Jamie's Italian will be replaced by Giovanni's Italian Kitchen. The Bionic Bar will become the Pesky Parrot tiki bar. Izumi, the ship's sushi restaurant, will add hibachi cooking. New accommodations, including the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite, will be added. The casino will grow in size. At-extra-cost casitas will be added on the pool deck. Family-friendly Offerings Part of me regretted not bringing my kids on this cruise because they would have loved the ship. (But the majority of me was grateful for adult time!) Ovation of the Seas caters to kids aged 6 months to 17 years with a drop-off nursery; a two-story, multiroom kids club for supervised activities for children 3 to 11; and a chill hangout and lively dance club for teens 12 to 17. With the exception of the extra-fee nursery, youth activities are free from morning until fairly late at night. But kids don't have to be sent 'away' to have fun. A water play area for kids in diapers is a rare find on cruise ships, while the SeaPlex, arcade, and rock wall will keep older kids entertained. The pizza/hot dog/fried chicken venues were staples for many kids on my sailing. And I would have overlooked the pool deck's soft-serve ice cream machine but for the line of kids waiting out in the sun for cool treats. Accessibility Ovation of the Seas has 33 wheelchair accessible cabins across inside, ocean-view, balcony, and suite categories. They have features such as roll-in showers, ramped or flat thresholds, and lowered closet rods. The ship also has amenities for hearing- and visually impaired travelers. Accessible public bathrooms are found throughout the ship, and the main pool and hot tub have lifts. The North Star is wheelchair-friendly, with an elevator to the loading platform and a ramp into the sightseeing pod itself. In addition, the ship's tenders are designed so wheelchairs can roll onto them. The kids club on Ovation of the Seas has staff members that are specifically trained to work with kids with autism spectrum disorder. Royal Caribbean offers detailed information about 'autism friendly ships' on its website.
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
10 best cruises from Singapore for a fun-filled vacation at sea
If you're looking for a way to go out to sea, a cruise is a convenient way to visit multiple destinations with onboard accommodation, dining and entertainment. Cruises are floating resorts that sail to different ports of call, so passengers can have a range of diverse experiences. Check out our list of the 10 best cruises in Singapore to hold a major celebration at sea. The Disney Adventure is Disney Cruise Line's newest cruise ship, scheduled to start sailing from Singapore in Dec 2025. Disney Adventure is the first Disney ship to be based in Asia and will offer 3- and 4-night voyages, focusing on magical days at sea. The ship is designed with Disney, Pixar and Marvel theming, promising unique experiences for guests. The cruise ship will feature 7 zones: Disney Imagination Garden, Disney Discovery Reef, San Fransokyo Street, Marvel Landing, Toy Story Place, Town Square and Wayfinder Bay. The San Fransokyo Street, inspired by the world of Big Hero 6, features a bustling city atmosphere with interactive games, a street market and a family arcade. The Marvel Landing area will have attractions and experiences inspired by The Marvel Super Heroes. Concierge Bedroom Oceanview Suite from S$19,538 (Departing Jan 2026) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 6228 3728 (Phone) Mon to Fri: 8am – 10pm (Call Centre) Sat & Sun: 9am – 8pm (Call Centre) | | A 3-night cruise to Penang is available with Royal Caribbean on the Ovation of the Seas. The cruise departs from Singapore, spends a day in Penang and then returns to Singapore. This cruise includes a stop where passengers can explore the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site of George Town, visit temples such as the Taoist Goddess of Mercy Temple and see the beach at Batu Ferringhi. Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas offers a variety of activities, including the North Star observation capsule, iFly skydiving, bumper cars and numerous pools. This cruise includes complimentary food at various restaurants and access to entertainment and performances. Interior Room at S$359 Per Person (Departing Jan 2026) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 3157 2944 Daily: 24 hours | | The 8-night Bali Adventure Holiday Cruise on the Ovations of the Seas ship departs from Singapore with stops in Celukan Bawang (Bali), Benoa (Bali) and Lombok (Indonesia), before returning to town. The cruise has a varied mix of cultural experiences and activities. Ports of call include Celukan Bawang, a port town in northern Bali, known for its traditional industries and access to less-visited areas such as Lovina Beach and Banjar hot springs, Benoa, Bali's main port, offering access to beaches, the cities of Denpasar and Ubud and Lombok, Indonesia, an island reputed for its volcanoes, beaches and cultural attractions. The cruise features activities such as North Star (observation capsule), Bionic Bar (robot-crafted cocktails) and Live. Love. Legs. (aerial adventure). A range of dining options are available, including Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and a 5-course Chef's Table experience. Interior Room at S$1,659 Per Person (Departing Dec 2025) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 3157 2944 Daily: 24 hours | | A 12-night cruise exploring Vietnam and Thailand from either Singapore or Hong Kong, aboard the Celebrity Solstice, offers a mix of cultural experiences and relaxation. The cruise typically includes stops in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and scenic locations, with chances to explore the markets and temples and enjoy the beaches. Celebrity Solstice is one of their most decorated ships, with elegant designs everywhere you turn. Their passion for outstanding cuisine takes the onboard dining experience to a new level and the staterooms are sure to bring the comfort of your home, out to the ocean. The airy Main Restaurant, the Grand Epernay Restaurant, offers exquisite menu selections. These change nightly to give guests a wide variety of choices. And the service? Legendary. Veranda Stateroom at US$3,299 (S$4,241) Per Person (Departing Nov 2025) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 1 888 751 7804 Daily: 24 hours | | The 14 Nights Best of Japan and Taiwan cruise with Celebrity Cruises offers a journey through diverse cultures, stunning landscapes as well as modern metropolises. Passengers will explore Japan and its cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto, and Taiwan, with potential stops in Hualien and Taipei. The Celebrity Millennium, known for its modern luxury and innovative spaces such as the Lawn and AquaSpa, is the ship for this itinerary. Visit iconic cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto, experience ancient culture and enjoy modern amenities. Discover the unique blend of cultures in Taiwan, including Hualien, known for Taroko Gorge and Taipei with its vibrant night markets and natural mountain landscapes. Inside Stateroom at US$2,045 (S$2,629) Per Person (Departing Oct 2026) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 1-888-751-7804 Daily: 24 hours | | Sail with Royal Albatross on an epicurean odyssey with a trinity of top Singapore chefs The Genting Dream cruise ship, now operated by StarDream Cruises, provides onboard experiences, such as dining, entertainment and activities, with a focus on Asian hospitality. The Genting Dream offers cruises from Singapore, such as getaways and other itineraries with stops in Malaysia and Thailand, at cities or towns that include Penang and Port Klang. It features world-class theatre shows, parties, performances and classes, as well as an array of dining options, from international cuisine to speciality restaurants. The ship also boasts spa services, fitness centres and family-friendly amenities, such as children's clubs. Interior Stateroom (Value Fare, 2 Nights Weekend Getaway Cruise) (Departing 18 Jul) at S$918 at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 800 8528 188 Daily: 24 hours | | A 7-night Italy & Croatia cruise with Royal Caribbean is a cruise voyage that takes passengers on a week-long journey via Italy and Croatia, departing from Rome or Venice. These cruises include visits to various Italian and Croatian ports, including Naples/Capri, Sicily, Kotor, Dubrovnik and Split, with options to also explore Venice, Koper and other destinations. The cruises offer a mix of sightseeing, relaxation and onboard entertainment. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of dining options, including the Main Dining Room with rotating menus, speciality restaurants such as Izumi for sushi, Giovanni's Table for Italian cuisine and Chops Grille for steak. Guests can enjoy live shows, music and themed parties. Interior Stateroom from S$1,620 (Departing Sep 2025) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 3157 2944 Daily: 24 hours | | The 19-Day Cruise Australia & Asia: Melbourne and Bali is a cruise experience aboard the Norwegian Spirit. It is a journey from here to Sydney, with stops in Melbourne and Bali. The cruise includes ports of call in Australia and Indonesia. You will get the opportunity to explore cities including Surabaya, Perth, Busselton, Albany, Adelaide and Kangaroo Island. It also features onboard entertainment and activities, including access to the Stardust Theatre. It is designed with a freestyle concept, offering flexibility in dining and activities. These activities include multiple dining options (Asian, Italian, French, steakhouses), entertainment, a casino, bars and lounges, a spa and kids' activities onboard the ship. Inside Stateroom from S$1,889 Per Person (Departing Dec 2025) at 61 Marina Coastal Drive, Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore 018947 +65 31 651 680 Daily: 24 hours | | A 10-night 'Fly Cruise' to China, Japan and South Korea is a vacation package that combines air travel, a cruise and hotel stays to explore multiple cities and cultures in East Asia. It typically entails flying into a city in one of the countries. Thereafter, you will embark on a cruise that stops at ports in the other 2 countries and then fly out from a different city. The cruise will typically visit multiple ports. This will give you the chance to explore cities in countries such as China (Shanghai, Hong Kong, Beijing, Tianjin), Japan (Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Shimizu (Mt Fuji), Nagasaki, Kobe) and South Korea (Jeju Island, Busan, Incheon). A fly-cruise package simplifies travel planning by bundling flights, accommodation and transportation between destinations. In some cases, this can be more cost-effective than booking flights and accommodation separately, especially when considering convenience. Flight + Cruise + Transfer + Hotel from S$3,999 (Departing Oct 2025) at 601 MacPherson Road, Grantral Complex, #06-10, Singapore 368242 +65 6222 9222 / +65 8125 9162 Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm Sat: 9am – 1pm Closed on Sun | | A 10-night Mediterranean cruise on the Celebrity Ascent involves sailing to various iconic European venues. These include Greece, Italy and Croatia, with a focus on experiencing the culture, history and natural beauty of the region. The Celebrity Ascent is an Edge-class ship that is designed to provide an 'outward-facing' experience, connecting guests with the sea. This 10-night cruise includes stops in Italy (e.g., Rome, Sicily, Naples), Greece (e.g., Olympia, Corfu) and Croatia (e.g., Dubrovnik, Split). Guests can expect a rich blend of cultural exploration, sightseeing and opportunities to relax and enjoy the ship's amenities. Celebrity Cruises is known for its sophisticated, upscale experience with a focus on design, service and innovative onboard areas. Celebrity Ascent boasts features such as The Grand Plaza, Rooftop Garden, an adults-only Solarium pool and dining and entertainment venues. Inside Stateroom from S$4,299 (Departing Oct 2025) at 601 MacPherson Road, Grantral Complex, #06-10, Singapore 368242 +65 6222 9222 / +65 8125 9162 Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm Sat: 9am – 1pm Closed on Sun | | 11 yacht rental services in Singapore for an unforgettable outing The post 10 best cruises from Singapore for a fun-filled vacation at sea appeared first on
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The Independent
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
The three Royal Caribbean mega cruise ships set for an upgrade in 2026
Three popular Royal Caribbean cruise ships are set for an upgrade next year to add features such as new suites, pools, bars and restaurants. The cruise line has announced that Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, which will be sailing from Southampton next summer, will enter dry dock for improvements in early 2026. The revamp follows upgrades – or what Royal Caribbean describes as 'amplifications' – made to Allure of the Seas earlier this year, which the brand said has proved popular with passengers. Here is what passengers can expect. Ovation of the Seas Launched in 2016, the 4,182-capacity Ovation will have a refit in Singapore from early March 2026. The vessel is set for a revamped pool deck with private casitas and a new whirlpool spa. Popular venues from other vessels, such as Giovanni's Italian Kitchen, Izumi Teppanyaki, the tiki-themed Pesky Parrot bar, and a new nightlife venue called Sound Cellar, will also be added to the Quantum-class ship. A new Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite will also be added. The ship is due to operate Alaska sailings from spring 2026. Harmony of the Seas The 5,479-capacity Harmony will enter dry dock in Navantia, Cadiz, from early March 2026. Harmony, which launched in May 2016 and ranks among the largest cruise ships in the world, will also get a new Ultimate Family Suite and will welcome a Caribbean-inspired pool deck with tropical drinks available at the new The Lime & Coconut, as well as a refreshed adults-only Solarium. The Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Mexican restaurant El Loco Fresh and the new Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse are also being added. Royal Caribbean is also promising the largest Casino Royale on board. Harmony is due to return to service with sailings from Barcelona around the Mediterranean in May before heading to Port Canaveral for Caribbean cruises in winter 2026. Liberty of the Seas Liberty will be refurbished in Brest, France, from late April 2026. It is one of the oldest ships in the fleet, launched in 2007 with capacity for 3,798 passengers. The ship's last refit was in 2011. Changes will include a new pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas or wooden cabins by the pool. A Royal Escape Room is being added along with Japanese cuisine from Izumi Teppanyaki and tacos from El Loco Fresh. A Starbucks is also coming to the ship. Once complete, UK passengers will be able to enjoy the newly refurbished Liberty of the Seas during sailings from Southampton next summer. Jay Schneider, chief product innovation officer for Royal Caribbean, said: 'Royal Caribbean continues to raise the bar on delivering the best of every vacation with revolutionary ships and top-rated exclusive destinations. 'The 'Royal amplified' programme gives our guests the best of Royal Caribbean with new-to-class culinary options and experiences, entertainment and thrilling adventures, paired with the hospitality and service Royal Caribbean is known for. 'After seeing incredible success and guest satisfaction with the amplification of Allure of the Seas, we're excited to bring three new 'amplifications' to our fleet in 2026.'
Travel Weekly
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Travel Weekly
Three Royal Caribbean ships will get upgrades in 2026
Changes are in store for Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas next year, including new accommodations, entertainment and dining. Royal Caribbean will refresh the pool decks on all three ships, with the Ovation and Liberty getting new private casitas. Ovation will also get a new whirlpool while Harmony and Liberty will get a new bar, The Lime and Coconut. Harmony's solarium will also get a refresh. Entertainment changes on Ovation include a new venue for dancing, Sound Cellar, and an expansion of the Casino Royale. Harmony's Casino Royale will be expanded and become the largest in the Royal Caribbean fleet. The cruise line is also adding an escape room on the Liberty of the Seas. Harmony and Ovation are both getting new accommodations options, one of which will be the Ultimate Family Suite, a two-story space with a slide and other family-focused amenities which is currently only offered on Symphony of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas. Panoramic suites with floor-to-ceiling windows will be added to the Ovation. For dining, the cruise line is introducing food and bar options found on newer ships to these three vessels. The tiki bar Pesky Parrot and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen are coming to Ovation of the Seas. Harmony of the Seas will gain the Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade, Mexican restaurant El Loco Fresh and Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse. Izumi Teppanyaki as well as El Loco Fresh will be added to Liberty of the Seas. Royal Caribbean did not provide details on when the ships will undergo renovations.
