Exclamations of ‘you are doing what?!’ combined with sky high eyebrows was without doubt the most common response to sharing my plans to go on a cruise. When unpacking the responses it appeared people’s main bone of contention was my age, I won’t lie it was novel to be told I wasn’t old enough to do something at the grand old age of 30.
In fairness cruising has historically been the stomping ground of the Hawaiian-shirt-adorned, blue-rinse brigade. But the idea of staying in state-of-the-art facilities and the ease of waking up in a different country every morning with zero travelling hassle piqued my interest. Maybe the older generation are onto something and don’t want to share? Evidently I am not the only millennial eager to dip a toe into cruising, according to the ABTAs latest holiday habits report the number of young people (18-34 year olds) joining cruising has grown more than any other age group in the past 12 months. So what do you need to know?
Symphony of the Seas
THE SHIP
Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas ship is without doubt incomprehensible in its epic proportions. For those interested in cold hard facts, with a length of 1184.42 ft, and a gross tonnage of 228,081, it’s the largest cruise liner in the business. With a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers, that’s about 5 times the size of the Titanic in terms of scale.
The only thing more impressive than its size are its facilities. You want it, they have it; 19 pools and waterslides, laser tag, spa, full-size basketball court, running track, rock climbing wall, fully equipped gym, ice rink (ice skating in the middle of the Caribbean Sea takes a little to get your head around I can assure you), flowriders, zip lines, escape room, games arcade – the list really does seem endless.
Not to mention a pretty special spot found in the centre of the ship, aptly named Central Park: a remarkable open-air garden with over 12,000 plants and trees, to give a taste of land to those feeling homesick.
Foodies will rejoice at the 22 restaurants available on board. With such a vast amount of food available, a lot of it on offer 24/7, not to mention the American-sized portions, I was repeatedly warned of the ‘Cruise 6’, supposedly the average amount of weight gained during a 1 week cruise. I am not sure whether this has been scientifically verified but the notion that weight gain is inevitable on a cruise is one that came up time and time again. However, I am convinced compulsory cruise weight gain is as archaic as the assumed lower age limit of passengers. Of course go ahead indulge, and trust me you will during your time on board, you are on holiday and it would be rude to turn down a drink served by a robot (yep they have those too), but it doesn’t have to be ruinous. Food is fresh and plentiful in healthier options for those that want it. This combined with the long list of activities to keep you moving on board and the well-equipped busy gym will keep you out of trouble. Sign up for the class pass and join enthusiastic instructors in spinning, strength training and beach front yoga. With the new generation of cruisers piling on board, you will be in good company of like-minded holidaymakers.
Symphony of the Seas- view down on to Central Park
To better summarise the Symphony of the Seas might be the most ludicrously entertaining luxury hotel ever built, it also just happens to float. With everything going on, days at sea are surprisingly relished as it gives you a chance to truly indulge in everything it has to offer.
THE ROUTE
I joined a 7 day Western Caribbean and Perfect Day cruise, setting off from Miami. I am not ashamed to admit I did indulge in a minor Titanic wave moment as we pulled away. It’s quite a sight to see the largest cruise ship in the world launch, cars pull over on the highway to watch the spectacle, and I challenge you not to feel a little special. It’s a full day on ship on Day 2, as you’re on your way south to the first port stop Roatan, a small island off the coast of Honduras. Excursions can be booked in advance or through a representative on board. Or you can always go rouge and plan your own. We headed to West Bay beach, armed with our snorkels and blissfully explored the coral reef set just off the shore. Back on the ship by 5pm, ready to depart for our next 2 consecutive stops in Mexico, Cozumel and Peurto Costa Maya. Areas known for snorkelling and Mayan ruin expeditions – and the very best mescal margaritas I have ever tasted. The days can feel a little short with so much to see, typically you can start disembarking from 8am and last admittance back on the ship 5pm, so make sure you get organised. Day 6 is spent at sea with more than enough to keep you out of trouble should you wish for activity, alternatively you will always be able to find an empty sun lounger to watch the world go by.
Aerial views of Perfect Day at CocoCay
Which brings me to your final destination in the Bahamas, an exclusive island, accessible only to guests of Royal Caribbean cruises, the aptly named Perfect Day at CocoCay. Divided into Thrill and Chill sides the island caters to everyone. Be it plunging down the tallest waterslide in North America, viewing the island and surrounding crystal waters from the majestic heights of an air balloon or simply chilling in the Oasis Lagoon there is something for you. Ever evolving, the end of January 2020 sees the grand opening of Coco Beach club, the islands latest luxury offering, featuring 2,600 plus feet beachfront freshwater infinity pool. Complete with in-water loungers and poolside attendant service, this is chill to the max, a perfect antidote to a week of excursions, sightseeing and ship activities. Ever pushing the boundaries of luxury, Coco Beach club also brings the first floating cabanas to the Bahamas, offering uninterrupted ocean views and a moment of peace and tranquillity to reflect upon a week well spent. Expect to find on an Instagram feed near you in no time at all, picture perfect moments are made for sharing after all.
The picturesque entrance to the Chill Island area of Perfect Day at CocoCay
CRUISE HACKS
For those unfamiliar, the cruise experience can initially seem overwhelming, especially on boarding day: everyone is everywhere, you are getting lost and everyone else seems to be a pro and know exactly what there are doing. My advice would be to take a breath, relax, throw your holiday preconceptions aside and find a quiet area until the hubbub dies down a little. Go to your cabin and meet your attendant, they will be able to help you out with the basics. Most importantly download the app (spoken like a true millennial I know) but it really was a game changer for this control freak. Find out port times, dining options and timings, maps galore to stop you getting lost and bookings for shows and activities to ensure you dismiss any feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out). You can see it all, if you want to, you just need to be organised. Book in your shows – musicals with set builds to rival the West End, ice-skating spectaculars, cirque du soleil-style acrobatic productions and comedy sets require pre-booking. Also a priority should be your elective dining options (these are available at a supplement), a special shout out goes to Izumi for truly memorable sushi, in a week of a lot of foodie experiences it still remains the standout.
If you don’t have any pre-booked excursions, check out whatsinport.com before you dock. The ports can be a little Disneyland-esque, by which I mean overpriced, inauthentic tourist attractions. Do your research and venture out to see what the island really has to offer.
Without doubt these silver cruisers are definitely on to something, the joy of waking up in a different country every day is truly unparalleled (not to mention only having to unpack once). The vast choice offered on board means you can tailor your trip to your own exacting (age irrelevant) tastes. You may have made a cruiser out of me yet!
7-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day holiday onboard Symphony of the Seas, departing on 21st November 2020 and sailing round trip from Miami, Florida. Itinerary: Miami (Florida), United States; Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Perfect Day CocoCay, Bahamas; Miami (Florida), United States. Cruise price starts from £1,168.00 per person based on two people sharing a Balcony stateroom royalcaribbean.com