Sydneysiders are used to seeing cruise ships in their world-famous harbour, but nothing like what’s in store when Ovation of the Seas arrives in town on December 15.
Built at a cost of US$1 billion, the megaliner carries 6500 passengers and crew, is 348 metres long and is 18 decks high.
“Ovation of the Seas is an absolute game changer for cruising down under. SuperCruising is a holiday experience unlike anything else you can find in Australia – and it can only be found on Royal Caribbean,” says Adam Armstrong, Royal Caribbean managing director, Australia & New Zealand.
“Over the last decade we have committed to bringing the biggest and best cruise ships to our doorstep – and today is the climax of that story.
“This occasion marks the first time that a cruise line has ever based a brand new ship in this market.”
Here are just 10 other things that make the Ovation of the Seas special.
1. Sky dive without leaving the ship
Only available on Royal, Ovation of the Seas’ skydiving experience is a must-do for adrenaline junkies or novice thrill-seekers alike. For those who aren’t so sure about heights, RipCord by iFly is a seven metre tall wind tunnel – with the added bonus of a stunning sea view.
2. Test out some new wheels
Who said you can’t drive on water? Get behind the wheel of bumper cars and take them for a spin at SeaPlex, the largest active space at sea.
3. Wake up in a loft suite
The super ship features luxurious modern spaces, such as open plan, two storey loft suite accommodations that sleeps up to six, featuring a generous lounge and dining area and floor to ceiling windows offering spectacular views.
4. Be served your favourite cocktail by robots
Ovation of the Seas is all about changing the game when it comes to innovations at sea, and being served by robots is all part of the experience on the most modern ship in Australia. Just place your order via a tablet and watch as the robot mixologists shake, muddle and stir your cocktail, dancing away to your favourite tunes.
5. Dine with superstar Jamie Oliver
One of the world’s most popular chefs, Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian serves authentic pasta dishes, brilliant antipasto and divine dolce. The whole family will enjoy these Italian favourites in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
6. Fly high above the sea
Take in the super view more than 90 metres above the ocean in the North Star. This glass viewing pod is the closest to space you can get on the high seas, boasting breathtaking 360 degree views and it’s very own Guinness World Record for the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
7. Surf the perfect break
It sounds crazy but it’s true. If you love surfing (or have always wanted to try) the FlowRider surf simulator will let you ‘shred it’ without worrying about ‘dropping in’ on anyone. Boogie boarders welcome too!
8. Run away to the circus
If you’ve always dreamed of becoming a world-class acrobat, the ship’s circus school will have you gliding through the air and flying high on the trapeze in no time.
9. Take a trip down the rabbit hole at Wonderland
Like something from the stories of Alice, Wonderland is a magical restaurant unlike any other with incredible décor and creative dishes that dazzle your imagination and your tastebuds. Amazing and memorable dining experience for the big kids onboard.
10. Surf, download and stream as fast as you are surfing the high seas
Stay connected at sea with the fastest WiFi on water – VOOM. Just like the name suggests, wasting time waiting for your snaps to upload or movie to download is a thing of the past. With speeds fast enough to run Xbox Live gaming in SeaPlex, VOOM will let you check emails, stream videos and FaceTime to your heart’s content.
