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INDEPENDENCE OF THE SEAS
PHOTO TOUR AND COMMENTARY CONTENTS |
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OVERVIEW
Independence of the Seas is the third of Royal Caribbean’s Freedom-class ships. (See also Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas,) She is a large, family-friendly resort ship. Independence uses her large size not just to carry more passengers but to provide a greater variety of features and amenities. This translates into a greater mix of experiences for passengers and to satisfy a larger spectrum of cruisers. For example, on her open decks, the ship has an adults-only area for those who simply want to relax, a traditional cruise ship swimming pool area, a 5,380 square foot water park for children, and for the adventurous, a rock climbing wall, bungee jumping, water slides and a surfing simulator. Along the way, there is also a jogging trail, a full size basketball court, a miniature golf course and, of course, deck chairs. then inside the ship you have an ice skating rink, a shopping/entertainment mall, specialty restaurants, casual eateries, bars and lounges. In short, there is something for everyone. The atmosphere aboard is casual but active. Indeed, much attention has been given to building a series of amenities designed to appeal to people with an active lifestyle. The decor is often flashy. However, some areas such as the grand main dining room are quite traditional. Independence was refurbished in 2013 and underwent "amplification" in 2018 resulting in changes to certain venues and the addition of more features. Nautically, Independence is not a speed queen but can maintain a speed that compares well to other cruise ships. She is also surprisingly maneuverable for such a big ship. The ride is usually comfortable but there can be movement in bad weather. |
A traditional on the Royal Caribbean ships that have a Royal Promenade is a classic vehicle parked on the promenade.
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Running more than 440 feet down the center of the ship is the Royal Promenade, a mall with shops, eating venues and bars (above).. The area is used for entertainment, parades, and parties. It can be thought of as the heart of the ship's interior
public space, a ship's main street. At either end of the Royal Promenade are multi-deck atriums which are referred to as "Centrums".
public space, a ship's main street. At either end of the Royal Promenade are multi-deck atriums which are referred to as "Centrums".
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Independence has an extensive large art collection in the ship's public areas. It is made up of contemporary works inspired by the masters of the past. (See separate review).
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The Guest Services desk (above left) and the Shore Excursions desk (above right) are next to each other towards the aft end of the Royal Promenade. Guest Services acts like the reception desk at a hotel. Shore excursions sells tours and activities in the ports.
Also on the Royal Promenade is the Next Cruise office where guests can book future Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Azamara Club cruises (below).
Also on the Royal Promenade is the Next Cruise office where guests can book future Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Azamara Club cruises (below).
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Cruise ship photo tour and commentary - - Royal Caribbean - - Independence of the Seas - - Overview