Passengers: 3,648
Best for: Adrenaline junkies and families looking for lots of activities and great entertainment
Sails: The Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe
At a Glance: Before the Oasis- and Quantum-class ships came along, the Freedom class had the line’s biggest, most action-packed vessels. Like her sister ships, Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas, Independence of the Seas is still one of the most fun.
There’s Room for Everybody
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a whole crew, you’ll find a stateroom to suit you on this ship. Cabins range in size from 150 square feet for an interior cabin to 1,209 square feet for a four-bedroom suite, which comes with a whirlpool on the balcony. For smaller groups, there’s also the 587-square-foot two-bedroom Royal Family Suite, which has a sofa bed in the living rom and sleeps eight.
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The Action Is Non-Stop
Passengers who’d rather spend their vacation moving than lolling in a lounge chair will find plenty to keep them going. It has a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice rink, rock-climbing wall, and four pools. There’s also mini golf, a basketball court, and a fitness center where you’ll find a long list of classes (yoga, tai chi) to kick off your day.
You Can Catch a Show
Many cruise lines say they have Broadway-style entertainment, but on Independence of the Seas, passengers can see an actual performance of Grease, The Musical in the theater. And after that’s ticked off your list, you can always head to the rink to watch an ice-skating show, or head to the Promenade to check out a street parade filled with singers and dancers.
There Are Places to Relax
When you need a break from the action, grab a book and head to the adults-only Solarium pool: Some of the best views on the boat can be found from the Solarium’s cantilevered whirlpools, which hover over the ship’s edge. Or book a treatment at Vitality Spa, which offers everything from body wraps and massage to acupuncture and Botox.
The Restaurant Selection Is Vast
If you don’t like to eat at any restaurant more than once during a vacation, you’re in luck: There are a multitude of dining spots on board, including specialty restaurants like Giovanni’s Table, which features traditional Italian fare like veal meatballs and mushroom risotto; and Chops Grille steakhouse, with its crowd-pleasing mix of rib eyes, strip steaks, and veal chops. If you’re going out with the kids, there’s Johnny Rockets and Ben & Jerry’s. As for complimentary dining, you can hit the main dining room or grab a roll at Jade Sushi at the Windjammer Café buffet. If you’re looking for something easy and casual, check out Café Promenade for sandwiches and pastries or swing by Sorrento’s for New York-style pizza slices.
