Freedom of the Seas

Launched in 2006, Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world at the time of its debut, taking the title from Cunard's RMS Queen Mary 2.

Built in Finland at the Aker Yards drydock, the Freedom of the Seas was officially named at a ceremony in New York Harbor in May 2006. For three years it was based in the Port of Miami-Dade in Florida but in 2009 its home port was moved to Port Canaveral.

It gave its name to the Freedom class of floating goliaths and was built to be a bigger, better and more impressive version of Royal Caribbean International's already popular Voyager class of ships.

Watch more videos here

And there's no doubt that the Freedom of the Seas does just what was intended. With an enormous selection of activities, eateries, entertainment options and relaxation areas - not to mention impeccable service - it's the perfect choice for families, couples and groups of friends looking to enjoy a resort holiday at sea.

In early 2011, the ship was refurbished to include some new features, including a 3D movie screen and touch screen information kiosks.

The vessel regularly departs on voyages around the Caribbean that last for five, seven or nine nights. Depending on the selected route, ports of call include Haiti, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St Thomas and St Maarten.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 4,375
Year entered service: 2006
Beam (ship width): 183.7 feet
Draught (ship depth): 27.8feet
Length: 1,112.2 feet
Tonnage: 154,407
Crew: 1,397
Maximum speed: 21.6 knots
Number of passenger decks: 15
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 1,817

Food, cuisine and dining

The main dining room on the Freedom of the Seas is three decks high with levels named after Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton and Galileo Galilei. Three meals a day are served in this venue and guests can choose between two dinner services or My Time Dining.

In addition, there are several other eateries located around the ship, offering plenty of alternative options in a usually quieter and less busy setting.

The Windjammer Cafe is a casual buffet that's found on most of the Royal Caribbean fleet and it's a popular choice for guests. Meals are available from early morning until late at night. The menu changes on a daily basis, but usually includes soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers. There's also a carvery and some delectable desserts.

Other dining options on the Freedom of the Seas include:
• Jade
• Portofino
• Chops Grille
• Johnny Rockets
• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento's Pizzeria
• Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Bar
• Sprinkles
• Room service
If you're looking for something to quench your thirst, the Squeeze juice bar offers delicious smoothies. Alternatively, you could head off to one of the many bars for your favourite tipple.

Boleros is a trendy Latin lounge where bartenders will be happy to whip up a fabulous cocktail while you sit back and enjoy the live music and dancing. There's also the Bull and Bear Pub, the Schooner Bar, the On Air Bar, the Champagne Bar and the Olive or Twist which specialises in martinis.

On-board entertainment and activities

Royal Caribbean has dedicated significant time and effort into creating a cruise experience that's fun for the entire family.

For grownups, there's wine tasting, comedy clubs and the Casino Royale, not to mention the amazing nightlife.

However, it's the kid-friendly activities that really shine and parents will never need to worry about their children running out of things to do.

The H2O Zone is a water park featuring fountains, water canons, sculptures that spray water in every direction and even a waterfall. Kids will love to play in the wading pool and at night, the entire area lights up to create an amazing spectacle.

Adventure Ocean is a youth club for children aged three to 11 years. From story time and face painting for the little ones, through to backstage tours and educational activities for older kids, there's plenty to keep children busy - so parents can enjoy a bit of time to themselves.

An exclusive area for teens includes a nightclub, sun deck and the Living Room - a hangout which includes sofas for lounging with friends, as well as table football and video games like Guitar Hero. Computers are also available with internet access and there's a non-alcoholic bar.

The Freedom of the Seas also hosts the DreamWorks Experience. Throughout the voyage, your family will get to interact with favourite characters from films like Shrek and How to Train Your Dragon: characters regularly wander the decks for photo ops and might even stop for a visit during meal times.

There are also 3D films, ice skating and water shows based around the DreamWorks theme and sure to delight fans of any age.

Spas and fitness facilities

If you want to get your blood pumping, there are plenty of options located all around the ship for you to choose from. For example, take a personal boxing lesson in the Everlast boxing ring. There's also a climbing wall, a nine-hole miniature golf course, a multi-sports court for games like basketball, football and hockey, a surfing simulation pool and two swimming pools.

You could also visit the large spa and fitness centre for a session on the aerobic and resistance machines. While there you may enjoy a fitness class, relax in the sauna or steam room or have a massage or facial treatment.

Cabins

One of the main decisions you'll need to make when booking a voyage on the Freedom of the Seas is the level of accommodation that you desire. With 1,817 rooms in 14 different categories and spanning 21 price brackets, you're sure to find something that suits your requirements, as well as your budget.

For example, you'll have a range of cabin sizes and features to choose from. The largest and most luxurious, the Royal Suite, measures 1,406 square feet and can accommodate four guests, while the Presidential Family Suite is 1,215 square feet and can sleep up to 14 people. Both options include a private balcony with sweeping sea views.

Alternatively, more basic staterooms measure approximate 160 square feet. Most are designed for two passengers, although some include sofa beds, making them ideal for families on budgets. Choose from sea views, promenade views or an interior cabin.

Every room includes a private bathroom, a vanity with a hair dryer, a personal safe, a flat screen television and a satellite phone.