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FREEDOM OF THE SEAS FACTS
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Description
The Freedom of the Seas, at the time of its launch, was introduced as the world’s biggest cruise ship. It carries the same name as the line’s Freedom-class, and has since then opened the possibilities of building ships which could carry more than 3,000 people. Of course, since its inception, the Freedom of the Seas has been surpassed by its sister vessel, the Oasis of the Seas. Still, especially with its recent refurbishing, it remains one of the grandest cruise vessels in this part of the world. Inside, you’ll find a water park, a boxing ring, a 3D theater, and many more. The cruise atmosphere is casual and marketed mostly to traveling families. There are as much facilities for children as there are for adults, and the cabins are certainly spacious enough for average traveling American families.
Destinations
All throughout the year, the Freedom of the Seas travels to Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean. The highlights of these trips include an onshore excursion to Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, horseback riding along the beaches, snorkeling with sting rays, and deep diving at the best spots in the Caribbean. Those who don’t like diving or snorkeling can also ride the glass bottom boat. There are also land trips to the ancient Mayan communities.
History
The Freedom of the Seas is a Freedom class cruise ship. It was built in 2006 by STX Europe in Finland. It was officially named in the New York Harbor on May 12, with the ceremonies broadcasted live by NBC. Some of its passengers may recognize the ship’s structure through the reality show, America’s Top Model (Cycle 9). The ship was used as a setting for the casting part of the show. While the ship is fairly new, it underwent its first dry dock refurbishment recently, last March, 2011. Features found in the line’s newer ships (the Allure, and the Oasis of the Seas) can now be found on this ship. These features include touch screen kiosks and 3D theatres.
Dining
Dining onboard the Freedom of the Seas is like dining in a five-star hotel. Passengers can enjoy the best American Coffee at the ship’s coffee shop, have a quick lunch at the Sorrento’s Pizzeria, or enjoy desserts and snacks at the Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shop. For a more formal dining experience, passengers can go to the main dining room which is serviced by waiters and lined with chandeliers. Lunch and dinner are served with open seating, but the seats are assigned during dinner time. If you’re booking with a travel agent, make sure that you’re clear about your dining needs (seat reservations, allergies, etc.). There is also a Johnny Rocket’s restaurant onboard, just in case the kids are looking for good old American food.
Entertainment
The Freedom of the Seas has partnered with DreamWorks to give its passengers the ultimate entertainment experience while they’re on their cruise. There’s a newly installed theater on the dock which shows films in 3D, swimming pools and whirl pools for those who would like to soak up the sun, a full sized boxing ring and a fitness center for those who would like to keep fit, and an impressive spa for relaxation. There is also a skating rink, thematic lounges, and numerous bars sprinkled across the ship for refreshments and socializing. There is also a casino onboard, a skating rink, a water park, and a 9-hole miniature golf course. Passengers will never run out of activities when they travel onboard the Freedom of the Seas.
Cabins
Cabin configurations onboard the Freedom of the Seas are friendly to both traveling groups and solo cruisers. You can choose from inside, outside and balcony cabins as well as bigger suites. There are too many variations of cabin classes here to mention. It’s safe to say that depending on your budget, you’ll be able to find just the right cabin for your needs. The basic amenities of these cabins include air conditioning, bath/shower, bed sizes of your choice, and internet access. There are also mini fridges, flat screen TVs, and private safes. You can choose from 1,817 staterooms, 842 of them with private balconies, and 172 with promenade views.
Related Cruise Ships
Adventure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Brilliance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Enchantment of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Explorer of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Grandeur of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Independence of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Jewel of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Legend of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Liberty of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Majesty of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Mariner of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Monarch of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Navigator of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Radiance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Rhapsody of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Serenade of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Splendour of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Vision of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Voyager of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Ship Summary
| Operator: | Royal Caribbean International | | Built by: | STX Europe, Turku Finland | | Date Completed: | 2006 | | Gross Tonnage: | 154407 | | Length: | 338.91 m | | Width: | 38.60 m | | Decks: | 15 | | Passengers: | 3634 | | Crew: | 1360 | | IMO: | 9304033 |
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