A Royal Meeting

Standing ‘Ovation’ for Royal Caribbean after my invitation to visit it’s beautiful latest addition to their fleet.

This week saw Ovation of the Seas arrival to Southampton and what a beauty she is. I am going to give you a brief outline this week of my thoughts on the overall experience and next time will go into more details about the cabin choices as believe me, I could write a book about them!

So, this was my first experience of Royal Caribbean and although I have sold thousands of people on the their brand, I was really excited about seeing what all the fuss was really about.

Firstly, she didn’t appear as big outside as I first though. maybe the sleek lines didn’t make her seem like a prison block like some ships of similar sizes look like. Her pale blue hull made her seem rather elegant.

Boarding at Southampton is always a breeze and we boarded earlier than expected and a smile appeared on my face as was met by such breath taking beauty.

The Esplanade – Shops and bar areas for those that have yet to sail with Royal was stunning. Very Airy and not at all ‘American’ styled as I had imagined. I think I had been expecting a really overwhelming enclosed area packed to the brim with burger places and ice cream Parlours. I couldn’t have been more wrong. It was Classy and as refined as you would expect more on a Celebrity ship. Beautiful art work with exquisite chandeliers.

There are lots of spacious public areas on board too with ramps and mobility access everywhere we went. The sunbeds were really the only place that looked a bit cramped and I did wonder if everyone would get a bed on busy sea days.

We dined in the Silk Restaurant and this was bathed in dark luxurious silk curtains giving a real Eastern promise. The food was amazing and the staff so attentive and made sure everything was cooked to perfection individually and not just to the loudest on the table.

In the evening we tried a few of the entertainment options. Firstly we headed to the Bolero bar- Karaoke area and a really good venue. Off then to the Music Hall where a live 80’s band played a solid 21/2hr slot and were a real winner with us all on board.

My highlight was the North star trip. I am not bothered about heights but do try and stay away from bridges and piers but I overcame my fear and so glad I took the amazing opportunity to try this

We didn’t get to sample a show as it was only the Agents evening but the Royal Theatre was the place for the Musical option if you fancy.

All in all I had a great time and cant wait to sample another Royal ship very soon.