Take a voyage on the Rhapsody of the Seas

As part of the Vision class of ships in the Royal Caribbean Cruises fleet, the Rhapsody of the Seas was launched in 1997. It is a gorgeous ship that, like its five sisters, was constructed using glass to create a stunning decor and sense of spaciousness throughout.

In fact, more than two acres of glass can be found on the liner, including canopies, skylights and massive floor-to-ceiling windows. These ensure that passengers can enjoy natural sunlight in many places on the vessel, as well as spectacular views when both in port and out at sea.

The Rhapsody spends most of its time in the Pacific Ocean, and offers passengers a perpetual summer - during May to August it is in the northern hemisphere and from September to April it is in the south.

When above the equator, the liner is generally based in Seattle and offers Alaskan cruises, taking passengers to breathtaking places like the Sawyer Glacier and the Tracy Arm Fjord, as well as Juneau, Skagway and Victoria.

For the rest of the year, the vessel is usually based in Sydney and sails to destinations such as Willis Island, Brisbane, Melbourne and Tasmania. Tours of French Polynesia and Hawaii are also available.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,435
Year entered service: 1997
Beam (ship width): 105.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 24.9 feet
Length: 915.3 feet
Tonnage: 78,491
Crew: 765
Maximum speed: 22 knots
Number of passenger decks: 11
Number of lifts: 9
Number of swimming pools: 1
Number of cabins: 1,000

Food, cuisine and dining

Finding something to eat should never be an issue on the Rhapsody of the Seas. After all, there are a number of restaurants to choose from, so it's simply a question of deciding where to go!

The main dining room is a lavish, two-storey space called the Edelweiss. It serves breakfast and lunch on an open-seating basis, with a number of buffet and table-service items. Dinner is a more formal occasion and there are two separate seating times, as well as My Time Dining for those who prefer to eat to their own schedule.

In addition, there's the Windjammer Cafe, a large self-serve buffet with a more casual atmosphere and there's a fast-food kiosk in the Solarium that serves burgers, hotdogs, pizzas and other tasty treats. Room service is also available 24 hours a day.

On-board entertainment and activities

Entertainment is plentiful on the Rhapsody and during the day, options range from quiz shows, bingo, competitions and lounging in the sun, to lectures, workshops and classes.There's also a fabulous kids' club.

In the evening, the themed bars are popular locations for drinks, lively conversation and entertainment like music and dancing. There's also the Casino Royale for those who want to try a bit of gambling.

Alternatively, why not find a seat in the seven-deck-high Centrum atrium and relax with your favourite cocktail?

The Broadway Melodies Theatre is a huge space with a striking decor, and it hosts variety shows, cabaret, concerts, comedians and solo entertainers on most nights of every voyage.

Spas and fitness facilities

There are two swimming pools on the Rhapsody - the main one is outdoors and surrounded by four hot tubs. Meanwhile, there's also one in the Egyptian-themed Solarium. Two additional whirlpools are also located in this space and it is a fabulous place if you want to relax.

A spa is available for those who are looking for a bit of pampering, while those who want to work out stress with exercise should be sure to pay a visit to the state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Cabins

The 1,000 rooms on the Rhapsody are separated into 18 price grades that vary depending on the room's size, location and features. Those seeking the best cruise deals may want to consider the more basic rooms - such as the standard interior rooms might be the best option.

For something more plush, perhaps splash-out with Owner's Suite accommodation. These are spacious rooms with large balconies and concierge service.

No matter which option you select though, you're sure to be comfortable and amenities for all cabins include televisions, private bathrooms and personal safes.