I was recently lucky enough to be invited onboard the Independence of the Seas to join in the inaugural celebrations.

On arrival in Southampton docks I was of course expecting the worlds largest cruise ship to be pretty impressive, but I was actually surprised at the length more than the sheer size of the ship. We boarded quickly and were directed to our cabin, an ocean view on deck 3, where we would be spending the night.

I found the cabin to be comfortable, fairly spacious, with everything you would expect from Royal Caribbean, including a flat screen TV, hair dryer and tea and coffee making facilties.

We quickly dropped off our baggage, and went off to explore the ship. Where to start? I would struggle to navigate around the ship myself, good job I was with others who had a better sense of direction than me! We soon found the Royal Promenade which is a spectacular, colourful walkway through the middle of the ship overlooked by cabins. The Promenade is lined with shops, as well as a Ben and Jerry’s ice cream bar, coffee house, vintage wine bar plus a cosy pub.

Next we ventured around numerous bars, including the intimate champagne bar, and karaoke bar which has two small ‘pods’ where you can choose a song, step inside and sing along with a screen in front of you showing you with a glitter ball in the background! Very entertaining after a few drinks!

The outside areas on the ship were probably more impressive than the inside! First we took a trip to see Flow Rider, a surf machine, this looks like great fun, but not for me, I’d rather sit back and watch the ‘surfers’ attempts. Beyond the flow rider stands the impressive rock climbing wall – bigger than ever I’m sure, then there is the modest but immaculate mini golf course, golf simulator, basketball courts… the list goes on and on! I think it is safe to say there is lots to do onboard.

Whenever I have cruised before, I have ignored the gym, however, this is the first time I have ever seen one that could tempt me into an early morning session!  Loads of space, loads of high tech looking equipment and even a boxing ring! The nearby spa looked very professional, but not overly impressive compared to much of the rest of the ship.

Dining lived up to my expectations of Royal Caribbean – lots of choice, good quality and excellent service. The main dining room spanned 3 floors and was beautiful. The popular Windjammer, which serves buffet style food, was also very good with great choice.

The children’s facilities were good, but I felt it was better suited to older children, except for a large outdoor kids paddling area, which was filled with colourful sprinklers and other fun looking water features!

I don’t think anyone could possibly get bored on a ship like this; there is just so much to do. I could definitely see myself booking on this ship for a week long cruise!

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