Royal Caribbean’s Independence Finally returns back to Southampton

From overall feedback from my clients who sail with Royal Caribbean over the years I have to say that the Independence of the Seas has always received the most positive response overall, even against newer ships that have since been released.

It was a real shame when she left her home port of Southampton in late 2014 to base out of Florida as many of my clients love the convenience of sailing out of Southampton and can’t or don’t like to fly.

Fortunately for us Royal Caribbean have decided to now return the Independence to Southampton from May 2018 and she has also received an extensive refurbishment as well as some new features.

New Features include :-

Skypad – A virtual reality trampoline experience that gives you the impression you’re floating in space or walking on the moon.

Playmakers Sports Bar – A sports-themed bar which made its debut on the line’s newest ship, Symphony of the Seas. It will have a number of big-screen TVs showing whatever major sports games are playing around the world, depending where the ship is based, and will serve a wide variety of craft beers, cocktails and snack foods.

Splashaway Bay – A childrens water park featuring water slides, water cannons, fountains, pools and the drench bucket.

The Perfect Storm – Two racing waterslides — called Cyclone and Typhoon — that make up The Perfect Storm can be used to race friends and family.

Fish & Ships – A new poolside venue serving quintessentially British seaside snacks, including fresh fried cod with chips.

Escape Room – Right at the top of the ship, on Deck 15 (where the chapel was), this is called the Observatorium.

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi – Debuting the biggest hibachi on the fleet.

Sugar Beach Candy & Ice Cream Store – A brand-new sweet shop, which also made its debut on Symphony.

Laser Tag Arena – A glow-in-the-dark arena housed in the Studio B ice rink (between ice shows).

Panoramic Ocean View Cabins – A new cabin type featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a separate living area and a rotating TV suspended on a stand in the centre of the room.

On top of the above Royal Caribbean have just released their new special offers meaning that from today a Deluxe Drinks package can be included as well as free pre-paid gratuities. There is also free wifi on Balcony cabin grades and above.