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Independence of the Seas - Freedom Family
Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas cruise ship is set to become the third in the spectacular Freedom class of ships. Upon her May 2008 debut in the United Kingdom, she will be the largest ship ever to be home-ported in Europe. Guests across the globe will have access to the same amazing onboard innovations offered by the other Freedom-family Royal Caribbean ships, as well as a variety of exciting European itineraries to choose from.
Dining on Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ships is as exciting as every other aspect of life onboard. There are so many different dishes and enticing atmospheres to experience you won’t know where to start: pasta at Portofino, classic burgers from Johnny Rockets, gourmet 5-course meals in the main dining room, and much more! In addition, all of Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ships offer low-fat ShipShape Day Spa menus, kid menus, and, if you arrange in advance, kosher menus.
Main Dining
The elegant main dining room is a great place to start the morning off right or finish off a fabulous day with a five-course meal.
Specialty Dining
Enjoy a delicious Italian meal in an intimate and romantic setting at Portofino. From classic Italian dishes to new creations, the menu has something for everyone. If your taste is for a classic chophouse, Chops Grille offers fabulous steaks and seafood dishes. It’s a great place to celebrate a special occasion, or just another perfect day of vacation.
For a more low-key dining experience, get the family together for good old-fashioned burgers and fries at Johnny Rockets. With its retro décor and classic all-American menu, Johnny Rockets is like the 1950s all over again. In addition, you can grab a slice of pizza or a quick sandwich at the Café Promenade. You’ll find Café Promenade in the middle of the action on the Royal Promenade.
The Independence of the Seas also invites you to relax with a frothy cappuccino and a light snack while you watch the world go by in Latté-tudes, a modern-day coffee bar, or stop by Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for cool treats in a rotating selection of fabulous flavors. There, you can chill out with a frozen drink or sample from up to 16 different flavors as part of the sundae of your dreams.
Casual Dining
Enjoy spectacular buffets and incredible views at the Windjammer Café. The casual convenience of the Windjammer Café and the wide variety of menu options make this restaurant a guest favorite.
After a day of exploring the world, its exotic cuisine, and interesting cultures, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of your private cabin. Every one of Independence of the Seas’ cabins is designed to be a comfortable, relaxing place for you to rest after your adventures. Every room offers a television, telephone, private bath, shower, vanity and even a hair-dryer.
Four main categories of cabins are offered. By choosing a category, you can then choose a specific room-type, based on your needs.
Suite / Deluxe
Relax in luxury in the comfortable suites of the Independence of the Seas. Enjoy WiFi and cell phone connectivity along with flat screen TVs in every room. Most suites provide multiple rooms, balconies, and some even offer complimentary concierge service.
Balcony
Open your private balcony and take in the beautiful view. It’s a great way to get close to every destination and make the most of your vacation at sea. Enjoy WiFi and cell phone connectivity along with flat screen TVs in every room.
Oceanview
You’ll never miss a moment of the breathtaking scenery just outside your window in these oceanview rooms. In oceanview cabins, enjoy WiFi and cell phone connectivity along with a flat screen TV.
Interior
Relax in all the comfort of Royal Caribbean International’s interior cabins. These nicely appointed rooms are an excellent value. Guests can enjoy WiFi and cell phone connectivity along with flat screen TVs in every interior room.
The gorgeous view isn’t the only thing that will dazzle you onboard the Independence of the Seas. See a contemporary musical stage production or catch a live band. Or, be part of the fun with ballroom dancing lessons, ice-skating, and miniature golf. Then you can write home to tell everyone about it from the Internet Café.
The excitement onboard the cruise ship doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Dance the night away to hot Latin rhythms, watch a live band play your favorite song, laugh with a comedian, or enjoy a cocktail with some new friends in the bars, lounges, and discos on the Independence of the Seas.
There’s nothing like the sound of cards being shuffled, chips being stacked, and slot machines paying off. The Casino Royale is a little bit of Vegas, a little bit of Monte Carlo, and a lot of Royal Caribbean fun. Games are available for all levels of players. There are onboard lessons for novice players and tournaments for the more advanced. Casino Royale is open whenever you are sailing, so stop in and try your luck.
Shipshape Fitness Center has the best equipment and all the latest classes, like yoga and Pilates. It has everything the most sophisticated fitness clubs have – weight machines, treadmills, stairsteppers, spinning bikes – plus an amazing view.
On the Sports Deck, jog your morning mile in the middle of the ocean, work on your swing in golf simulators, pick up a game of basketball, or try the famous Royal Caribbean rock-climbing wall.
If you still need one more fun thing to do to for exercise, try surfing at the exciting FlowRider wave simulator!
With so much to do onboard, plus countless adventures on land, remember to take time for yourself. After all, it’s your vacation! Consider indulging yourself and visit the Day Spa.
Treat yourself to a pedicure or facial, or go for something you’ve never tried before, like a seaweed wrap or aroma stone therapy massage. Soothe your body, smooth your skin, and send your mind to a sensory heaven. While it will seem fun and extravagant, keep in mind that it is actually a pathway to your own personal well-being.
Fun isn’t just for adults at Royal Caribbean. Exciting programs are offered for guests of all ages, including the new Crown & Anchor Society Youth Program. With membership, children age 17 and under can earn credit for cruising aboard Royal Caribbean International and receive special onboard benefits just for them!
Teens can discover a whole new world of cruising tailored for them while onboard. From dancing until 2:00 a.m. in the teen-only dance club to just hanging out with friends in the teen-only lounge, there’s plenty of options to make new friends, explore independently, and have a blast.
As for the younger set, activities are available for babies starting at just 6-months-old! The Fisher-Price Aqua Babies and Aqua Tots Programs for parents and children 6 to 36 months-old was developed by Fisher-Price exclusively for Royal Caribbean International. Drop by, stay, and play!
Kids ages 3 to 11 will especially love the complimentary Adventure Ocean Youth Program, specially designed to blend educational activities with just plain fun. Every member of its staff holds a college degree in education or other related field, or has qualified experience in working with children, so you can feel confident that your kids will have the time of their lives while learning a little in the process.
Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ships visit some of the most exciting shopping destinations and museums in the world. However, you don’t have to leave the ship to shop or see some of the world’s finest artwork. A wide selection of shops is available onboard, as well as art galleries, art auctions, and a chance to explore some other fun activities, like wine tastings.
Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses, and sundresses are all perfect during the day, whether indoors or out.
Suggested guidelines for nighttime dress:
To thank those who have made your cruise vacation better than you could have imagined, Royal Caribbean International developed these gratuity guidelines: