Ovation of the Seas is the third groundbreaking ship in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class. Similarities from its sister ships include the North Star capsule that transports passengers 90 metres above the sea for a bird’s eye view. The ship offers world-class entertainment and nonstop fun. Onboard features smart technology called Royal IQ, a free interactive scheduling service that lets passengers make reservations for dining, entertainment and other activities. Making a debut on the Ovation is the colorful Kung Fu Panda Noodle Shop and there is a new Asian station in the Windjammer Marketplace buffet restaurant. Ovation of the Seas offers Asian itineraries and will have a brief spell in Australia.

[fa type=”bed”] Accommodation

Ovation stands out for its stateroom design and the range of cabins. There are interior and oceanview cabins. The majority of cabins have king-sized beds with curved ends, which can be divided into a twin bed configuration. The ship has 28 studio cabins for single travellers, a few with balconies, and 34 staterooms across the vessel are wheelchair accessible. There is ample storage with space beneath and above the bed to stow away suitcases, plenty of soft-close drawers and a full-length wardrobe. Many of the sofas can be pulled out to create extra sleeping space. Plug-in hair dryers, small safes, telephones, refrigerated mini-bars (with childproof locks) are standard. The flat-screen HDTVs provide a good range of channels, information on the ship and shore excursions, and a rolling morning program with updates from the cruise director and activities manager.

[fa type=”cutlery”] Food

The Windjammer Marketplace serves meals, light snacks and also offers a 24-hour cafe. Ovation of the Seas also stands out from its sister ships as it has an Asian station in the Marketplace. Ovation also has four 450-seat restaurants: Silk, Chic, The Grande and American Icon Grill. All have different atmospheres and menus. For those who prefer a more traditional cruise model of fixed-time seating, there is Dynamic Classic Dining, which allows passengers to dine with same tablemates and waiters each night, rotating in pre-set order among the four main restaurants. For a glamorous dining experience, head on to The Grande which is ornate with elegant colors of gold and cream. Expect superb dishes such as lobsters, escargots and duck.

[fa type=”ticket”] Activities

Vitality and Spa Salon offers body treatments, manicures and pedicures. An 18 per cent gratuity is added to all spa and salon services. Ovation has dedicated areas for the gym, group spinning classes, yoga and Pilates as well as TRX suspension training. Personal training and complimentary seminars on health and fitness are also options. There is also an outdoor jogging track and well as sports in the SeaPlex.

[fa type=”group”] Families

Like all Royal Caribbean ships, Ovation looks after families and makes sure children enjoy themselves. In partnership with DreamWorks, Ovation provides an opportunity for youngsters to meet their favorite characters, with themed parties and parades featuring Shrek, Marty, the penguins of Madagascar, and many more. At the Adventure Academy different activities are geared for children of different ages. There are interactive playgroups, games and learning activities. SeaPods are areas in the SeaPlex for getting together with the family and friends. Gamers can play Xbox or table football. Babysitting is also offered in a group setting or individually in guest’s stateroom.

Verdict

– Cruise Passenger

“An amazing megaliner filled with high-tech entertainment and attractions. Main buffet restaurant and bars get very busy when all passengers are aboard.”

– Cruise Critic

n/a

– Berlitz