Ship Visit Blog
Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas
On the 13th of July, I had the pleasure of visiting Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas while she was docked in Southampton—and wow, what a ship! From stylish staterooms to exciting onboard attractions, this ship truly has something for everyone, and I’m so excited to share what I saw.
Spacious Staterooms and Suites
I toured a variety of staterooms during my visit, including an accessible interior, balcony cabin, suites, and the incredible Royal Suite. All rooms were spacious, clean, and comfortable, with layouts that felt well thought out. One feature that really stood out? The bathrooms—larger than many other cruise lines, making the rooms feel even more accommodating.
The beds looked absolutely dreamy—plush, spotless, and super inviting. Whether you're after a cozy interior or a luxury suite, you're in for a restful stay.
Sun, Splash, and Serenity
We explored the main pool area, the adults-only Solarium, and the kids’ water park—and there were sunbeds everywhere! Perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or soaking up the sun. You can even hire casitas, stylish private cabana-style loungers that are ideal for that perfect Instagram moment.
Craving a quick treat? Soft serve ice cream is on tap nearby, and there’s also a casual fish and chips spot—ideal for a bite between activities.
Dining Highlights
One of the biggest surprises was the Windjammer buffet—it had everything. From pasta, burgers, carvery meats (which I tried and loved!), hot dogs, curries, and vegetarian/vegan dishes, to desserts and more. Drink stations offered coffee, tea, lemonade, iced tea, water, and a variety of fruit juices. Something for every taste and dietary need.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
The theatre looked absolutely spectacular. It features a range of seating from stalls to the balcony, with plenty of wheelchair-accessible areas, making it inclusive and grand all at once.
The main dining room was stunning—think Titanic-style elegance with grand staircases and glittering chandeliers. It’s the perfect setting for a memorable evening meal.
Walking through the Royal Promenade was another highlight. It’s the ship’s bustling main hub, lined with cafés, shops, bars, and restaurants. The wide, colourful walkways and ample seating made it welcoming for families, couples, and guests with varying mobilities.
Nonstop Activities
If you’re someone who likes to stay active and entertained, Independence of the Seas delivers. The ship features:
- FlowRider surf simulator
- Mini golf
- Water slides & splash park
- Escape room
- Sky Pad
- Climbing wall
- Tennis & football courts
…and so much more. The list really is endless!
Family Fun & Wellness
I also had a peek at the kids’ club areas—they were bright, clean, and full of activities to keep children of all ages engaged and entertained.
The gym was impressively large and well-equipped, perfect for fitness lovers even while at sea. The spa was serene and luxurious, offering a wide menu of relaxing treatments—a great way to unwind.
Exceptional Staff & Service
Something that really stood out throughout the visit was the staff. They were friendly, warm, and genuinely happy to help. Their energy and dedication to service reflect Royal Caribbean’s values perfectly. Most were smiling and happy to stop for a chat—they really are the heart of the ship.
Final Thoughts
So… would I cruise with Royal Caribbean? Absolutely!
Independence of the Seas is a large-scale cruise ship that caters incredibly well to families, young couples, and anyone looking for an active, fun-filled holiday. During our visit, we chatted with a guest who was on his second week onboard and told us that Royal Caribbean is unmatched—except by Celebrity Cruises (which is part of the same family). He sails regularly and wouldn’t cruise with anyone else!
Is it worth the price? That really depends on what you’re looking for.
If you're a couple seeking peace, quiet, and a more adult-focused experience, Royal Caribbean might not be the best fit—unless you plan to stick to the adults-only zones. But if you're a family looking for adventure, or a young couple ready to make unforgettable memories, then Royal Caribbean is the cruise line I’d point you toward first.
Compared to MSC, Princess, and P&O, Royal Caribbean tends to sit higher in terms of pricing—but that’s reflected in the scale and variety of the experience. You can find similar offerings on MSC, but on a smaller scale. Princess and P&O offer a more traditional, quieter atmosphere that may appeal more to older guests or those preferring a slower pace.
Ready to book your next cruise? Whether you want thrills, relaxation, or a bit of both, I can help you find the perfect sailing. Just message me—your cruise fairy godmother is only a click away!