Liberty of the Seas (together with sister ship Freedom of the Seas) is the largest purpose-built cruise ship ever constructed. It is essentially split into three separate areas, rather like the Disney cruise ships – adults-only, family, or main.

The “wow” factor is its connection with water (of the seas) in the design of a dramatic water theme park afloat. By day, the H2O Zone (aft of the funnel) has an interactive water-themed play area for families that includes water cannons and spray fountains, water jets and ground gushers; by night the “water park” turns into a colourfully-lit sculpture garden. Meanwhile, the ship’s central pool has become a sports pool, with grandstand seating and competitive games that include pole jousting. Other active sports facilities include an Everlast boxing ring, rock-climbing wall (10 ft taller than in the Voyager-class ships), in-line skating area, an ice-skating rink, and golf simulators.

The same facilities (public rooms, bars and lounges) featured in the Voyager-class ships have been incorporated, but with the addition of more conference and meetings facilities, extensive wi-fi capabilities and connectivity for cell phones. Other facilities include a large casino.

The cabin hallways have an extremely warm, attractive feel, with artwork cabinets and asymmetrical flow to lead you along and break up the monotony. In fact, there are plenty of colorful, even whimsical, decorative touches. Note that, if you meet someone you’d like to see again, you’ll need to make an appointment and specify a location, for this really is a large, Las Vegas-style floating resort-city.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publications 2008