New Horizons: Experiencing A Royal Caribbean Cruise For The First Time

Last summer, one of our travel advisors, Jennifer, and her husband Byron set sail on a journey that would forever redefine their idea of the perfect vacation: their first Royal Caribbean cruise. 

From the moment they stepped onboard, they were enveloped in a world of luxury and wonder, discovering an array of delights that ranged from futuristic robotic bartenders to serene, open-air gardens. Little did they know, this cruise would not only spoil them with breathtaking experiences but also set an unyielding standard for all future adventures at sea.

Ready to plan your next cruise vacation? Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, our expert travel advisors are available to help you plan your next incredible trip, both at home and abroad.

The Royal Caribbean Cruise Experience

“We opted for a balcony cabin and quickly realized that this choice would forever change our cruising style, it was going to be a balcony cabin or nothing from now on! The balcony became a haven for afternoon naps, a place of unparalleled relaxation and peace.”
– Jennifer Osborn, Travel Consultant with Covington Travel, Inc. –

Upon boarding the ship, they were immediately struck by its grandeur. The interior resembled a bustling mall, complete with a variety of shops and dining options. 

Among the many marvels was a robotic bartender that skillfully mixed drinks after guests swiped their key cards which added a touch of futuristic fun to their voyage. 

Another highlight was the floating bar, which offered a leisurely 30-minute ride up to Central Park, allowing passengers to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights.

Central Park, one of the ship’s distinct “neighborhoods”, was a serene outdoor garden located in the center of the ship. Open to the sky, it provided a unique blend of indoor and outdoor experiences. 

In this picturesque setting, Jennifer and Byron discovered a complimentary café serving delicious Cuban sandwiches, alongside renowned eateries like Jamie Oliver’s Italian restaurant, a steakhouse, and a farm-to-table restaurant.

The Boardwalk, a lively hub of activity, became their nightly destination. With a carousel they rode every evening, a Starbucks, a complimentary hot dog stand, and various shops and boardwalk games, it was a place of endless entertainment.

The Boardwalk also featured a Mexican restaurant and Johnny Rockets, where they often enjoyed breakfast and lunch. 

The thrill-seeker in them was drawn to the 10-story slide that ended in this area, and the Aqua Theater at the ship’s aft was a must-see, featuring performers diving 30 feet into a pool from a moving ship, combining dry and wet elements for an extraordinary show.

While the ship offered two rock climbing walls, they decided to admire rather than attempt them. On the top deck, they enjoyed a buffet but mostly indulged in specialty dining, finding the ship’s pizza particularly delightful.

Their exploration of the top deck revealed more attractions: two FlowRiders where they enjoyed watching others attempt to ride the waves, a wipeout bar with seating, and numerous other activities.

Miniature golf, a full basketball court (also used for pickleball), and a zipline were among the highlights. They did brave the zipline, adding a thrilling adventure to their journey. Additionally, the area housed a teen club, shops, an ice cream stand, a snack quick service area, and an arcade.

Mid-ship, they found a splash park for children, three water slides, and two pools with attentive drink service. Moving toward the ship’s front, they discovered an adults-only area with several hot tubs. Just before this tranquil zone, infinity-edge hot tubs on each side of the ship provided another spot for relaxation.

“Our first Royal Caribbean cruise was a blend of relaxation, adventure, and awe-inspiring experiences, making it an unforgettable journey that set a high bar for future travels.”
– Jennifer Osborn, Travel Consultant with Covington Travel, Inc. –

Ready To Plan Your Cruise Vacation?

We hope reading about Jennifer and Byron’s first Royal Caribbean cruise inspired you to experience a cruise yourself! If you’re ready to plan your next travel experience, click below to speak with one of our travel advisors.

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