Allure of the Seas

You can really tell the size of Allure of the Seas when you’re on the pool deck. Central Park area runs down the middle of the ship. Photos by Matt Roseboom

World’s largest cruise ship, Allure of the Seas makes her debut

By Matt and Jackie Roseboom

Royal Caribbean’s newest ship has launched. The Allure of the Seas is being dubbed an “Entertainment Ship”. There are so many things to do onboard, it’s hard to know where to start.

This ship offers more bang for your buck than ever before. When you look at the price of the room, food and entertainment together, other types of vacations just can’t compete. You also get to enjoy different ports of call while vacationing on this behemoth at sea.

The cliche that cruising is only for your grandparents is no longer true. With rock climbing, ice-skating, zip-lining, various restaurants, spa, and many shows all on the ship, it’s hard to compare it to anything except its sister ship, Oasis of the Seas. The Allure is roughly two inches longer, making her the largest cruise ship in the world. Ports are even the considering the size of the Oasis class ships when they remodel. Allure and Oasis really are the start of a new era in cruising.

Despite the ship’s size, it never really feels overwhelming. The hallways are sectioned off so you never see the full length of the ship while inside. There are also many small areas throughout. It’s easy to find a cozy spot to curl up and read a book — if that’s what you really want to do.

The entertainment and dining venues even offer an intimate feel. The smaller restaurants and clubs give this ship a city feel. You can easily forget you’re at sea. This city on water even has different sectioned areas. Central Park features classy shops and bistros in a lush landscaped setting right down the middle of the ship. The fun Boardwalk has a carousal, hot dog stand and other shops and restaurants. The Royal Promenade has dining, bars and shopping. This area also offers one of the first Starbucks at sea. The Pool and Sports Zone includes the pool area, Solarium and Sports deck. The Entertainment Place offers nightclubs, the casino and various types of theaters. The Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center features the many ways to improve your wellbeing — inside and out.

The staterooms come in many different configurations and prices. The most sought after are the ones that overlook the Boardwalk and AquaTheater. These rooms also offer a great view of the ocean out the back. But they can be noisy when you have your balcony door open.

The entertainment onboard includes first-run Dreamworks animation 3D movies, the Dreamworks Animation characters meet and greets, a fountain and high-dive show, Ice skating shows, a true broadway-style showing of Chicago and much more. It’s so much, look for a future column just about Allure’s great entertainment.

All and all, it’s the best value vacation for all ages. Allure of the Seas departs from Fort Lauderdale and cruises the Western and Eastern Caribbean.