Independence of the Seas

The Independence of the Seas, along with three other Royal Caribbean ships, is a Freedom class vessel. Until 2009 and the launch of the Oasis class, these were some of the largest cruise ships in existence.

Just because these ships are no longer the biggest giants on the water doesn't mean they're unimpressive. After all, they're longer than three international football pitches laid end-to-end and chock-full of entertainment facilities, restaurants and other activities.

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As one of the world's leading cruise lines, Royal Caribbean International has been in operation since 1968. Today, the company's fleet includes 42 ships sailing to destinations around the globe and the brand is constantly seeking ways to add innovative new twists to their offering, ensuring unique and enjoyable passenger experiences.

The Independence of the Seas was built in Turku, Finland, and took its first voyage in 2008. The original cruise itinerary for the ship had it travelling around Europe in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter.

Since 2010, however, it has operated solely from Southampton, England, offering year-round services to destinations like the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, Paris and Cork. The on-board currency is the US dollar and, depending on the cruise, voyages can last anywhere from ten to 18 days.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 4,376
Year entered service: 2008
Beam (ship width): 184 feet
Draught (ship depth): 27.8 feet
Length: 1,112 feet
Tonnage: 154,407
Crew: 1,397
Maximum speed: 23 knots
Number of passenger decks: 15
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 1,817

Food, cuisine and dining

There's plenty of choice when it comes to food on board the Independence of the Seas. The most popular eatery is the main dining room, which is open for all three main meals and is split across three decks. Each level has a different Shakespearean name: Romeo and Juliet, Othello and King Lear.

The Romeo and Juliet is open for breakfast and lunch and offers a huge range of options. Breakfast includes everything from pancakes and omelettes through to cereals and fresh fruit. Lunch is generally a combination of soups, salads, sandwiches and other hot entrees.

There are two dinner services, which take place across all three levels, and usually passengers need to choose which time they want to eat at before setting sail. However, the option of My Time Dining is also available, allowing you to select your mealtimes on the day.

Of course, there are plenty of other eateries located around the ship, such as:
• Windjammer
• Jade
• Sorrento's Pizzeria
• Cafe Promenade
• Sprinkles
• Ben and Jerry's
• Johnny Rocket's
• Portofino's
• Chops Grille

If you have special dietary requirements, most restaurants on the Independence of the Seas will be able to offer you something suitable. In addition, if you're looking for something a bit more healthy, be sure to check out the Vitality menu.

And if you'd prefer a leisurely meal or snack in your stateroom, why not opt for some room service? Perfect for quiet breakfast in bed or a midnight snack, there are plenty of delectable delights to choose from and the service is available 24 hours per day, although there is an additional fee for orders placed between midnight and 05:00.

On-board entertainment and activities

There's never a dull moment on the Independence of the Seas and whether you're looking for kid-friendly fun or something geared more towards adults, the options will seem endless.

At the Studio B ice skating rink, there are shows during the day and night with entertainers in breathtaking costumes flying through the air and performing amazing stunts.

Alternatively, there's the Alhambra theatre, which spans two decks and can seat up to 1,350 people. It regularly shows contemporary musical performances and sometimes plays host for celebrity appearances.

Of course, the nightlife is fantastic, with various comedy clubs, jazz bars and nightclubs scattered around the ship. Or why not spend some time at Casino Royale? With hundreds of slot machines, as well as blackjack and poker tables, you might just enjoy some big winnings!

Spas and fitness facilities

In the ship's state-of-the-art gym, it's possible to completely forget you're at sea, since it offers everything that you'd expect from a health club back home. Choose from aerobic machines like treadmills, stair climbers and stationary bikes, as well as weight machines and free weights.

Various exercise classes are offered free of charge, while others will incur an extra fee. Options include yoga, spinning, Pilates and aqua aerobics.

Of course, there are plenty of activities to keep you active elsewhere on the ship - golfing, surfing, swimming, ice skating and rock climbing are just a few examples.

If you want to unwind, why not try some heat therapy or book a spa treatment? Alternatively, the adults-only Solarium is the perfect place to unwind with its quiet pool and cantilevered hot tubs.

Cabins

For those planning a journey on the Independence of the Seas, there are many accommodation options to choose from, with 14 different types of rooms spanning 21 price levels. These vary by the number of people each room holds, the facilities they offer and their location.

For example, you can choose from among three different view options.

Sea view rooms are located on the outside of the ship and offer either a window or private balcony with breathtaking views of the ocean.

On the interior of the ship, you can get a room that looks out over the shopping promenade and atrium. Alternatively, the lowest priced rooms have no view at all.

For large groups travelling together, the Presidential Family Suite could be an ideal option. Measuring 1,215 square feet, it has five rooms and can sleep up to 14 people.

Meanwhile, most would consider the Royal Suite to be the most luxurious with its beautiful decor, spacious lounge, dining table, jacuzzi bath and baby grand piano. It measures 1,406 square feet and can accommodate four guests.

The most basic cabins measure around 160 to 170 square feet. They include two twin size beds that can be converted to a single queen size, as well as a private en-suite bathroom.

All rooms include flat screen televisions and passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi and mobile phone signals throughout the voyage.