With a whopping length of 1,187ft and a capacity of over 5,000 passengers, Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. This behemoth ship has redefined the cruise industry with its sheer scale and innovation, along with an impressive array of amenities and activities that caters to every type of traveller.
Launched in 2009, Oasis of the Seas remains one of the most popular and impressive vessels afloat today. That feat of longevity should come as no surprise — after all, the ship is nothing short of a luxurious floating city designed and built to take your breath away.
Lots to do
Oasis of the Seas features seven “neighbourhoods”, including Central Park, a lush, open-air tropical garden in the middle of the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Spread over 21,000 sq ft housing 15,000 plants, this is a sanctuary for passengers seeking a reset or enjoying a game of chess amid the vibrant green foliage.
The Boardwalk, meanwhile, is inspired by seaside piers; younger passengers can revel in its carousel and candy shop, before jumping into thrilling high-diving aquatic shows in the evening at the Aqua Theatre, an outdoor amphitheatre at the ship’s stern. Broadway fans will not be disappointed by full-scale productions of world-renowned shows like Cats and Grease.
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The Royal Promenade, akin to a bustling street in any number of cities around the world, is filled with a variety of alluring shops, lively bars and world-class entertainment.
Each neighbourhood is designed to provide a unique experience, ensuring that even on sea days, you’ll find yourself conflicted — not unhappily though — about how best to experience the smorgasbord of activities on board. Should you play a gentle round of mini golf or belt out your favourite Adele number at karaoke?
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One would think that 18 decks would make navigating this enormous ship an impossible challenge, but despite its size, the layout is surprisingly friendly and ensures that there’s always something new to discover.
Turn a corner on deck 6, for instance, and you’ll find a gym so well-equipped it would tempt even the most hesitant armchair athlete. If you’re in dire need of a massage or even a quick Botox fix, the Vitality Spa will have you looking and feeling brand-new in no time.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a food lover, or someone looking for a more peaceful retreat, Oasis of the Seas has pulled out all the stops to design something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can soar across the ship on a zipline, rock-climb, surf on the FlowRider® surf simulator, or take a ride down the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss.
Marine meals
Dining aboard Oasis of the Seas is another journey in itself — of the culinary variety, that is. The ship offers a range of complimentary and specialty dining options catering to every palate. From the upscale Coastal Kitchen to casual spots like the Boardwalk Dog House, there’s something for everyone.
The main dining room serves a rotating menu of international dishes, while specialty restaurants such as the Chops Grille steakhouse and Japanese eatery Izumi provide more tailored dining experiences.
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For those who prefer a laid-back meal, there’s always room service or a quick stop at the Windjammer buffet. Hungry at two in the morning after dancing the night away? Pop into Sorrento’s for a pizza straight from the oven. The ship’s dining offerings ensure that every meal is as memorable as the destinations visited.
Coast to coast
The seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Oasis of the Seas includes stops in some of the most famous and breathtaking cities along the Mediterranean coast.
Arrive in Rome, the Eternal City, before boarding the cruise ship at its port, Civitavecchia. A day in the city gives you time to visit ancient landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. Alternatively, you can explore the Vatican, home of St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
The first port of call on the cruise is Naples, a city rich in history and culture. From here, you can visit the vast ruins of Pompeii, explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, or take a ferry to the island of Capri.
Stroll down La Rambla, admire the works of Gaudi and respond to the call of the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, a city that perfectly blends history, art and modernity. In Palma de Mallorca, take a sunbed on the beach in trendy Palmanova as you sip a sangria after an invigorating dip in the sea. When docked in Marseille, wander around the charming villages of Provence, taste its excellent wines and inhale the intoxicating scent of fresh lavender.
The final stop in La Spezia will have you artfully satiated in Florence, cradle of the Renaissance and home to masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s David and the Uffizi Gallery as well as Pisa, home of the famous Leaning Tower.
Ease of travel
One of the most significant advantages of a cruise such as this is the seamless integration of air and sea travel, offering the time-strapped vacationer a hassle-free way to explore multiple destinations.
Incredibly convenient in eliminating the stressful minutiae of logistics, the cruise ship is your hotel, restaurant and entertainment venue all neatly packed in one. Forget the worry of packing and unpacking at each new city or rushing to catch multiple flights or trains. Overnight sailing means you wake up in a new city each day, maximising your sightseeing time at each destination.
Whether your interests lie in art, history, nature or cuisine, you’ll find yourself more than occupied with this itinerary. The flexibility of choosing from different shore excursions allows travellers to tailor their experiences based on their interests, making it easy to see the highlights of each destination or venture off the beaten path.
This cruise is more than a voyage; it’s a luxurious exploration of the Mediterranean’s vibrant history, culture and natural beauty, all while being thoroughly spoiled by the comfort and convenience that Royal Caribbean provides.
