Getaway on Independence of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

• Find the perfect spot for sail away

Every great cruise starts with a drink in hand, watching the port fade into the distance as you sail away. My favorite spot for this on Independence of the Seas is the helicopter pad!

• Get a massage at Vitality Spa

Vitality Spa has a number of treatments available that are sure to sooth your soul.

My favorite pro tip: schedule your treatment for the beginning of your sailing to kick off the vacation mode.

• Take advantage of onboard activities

Check your Cruise Compass for a full list of activities available on your sailing. Sing some karaoke, attend a themed trivia or compete in the famous belly flop competition (just to name a few!). The possibilities are endless.

• Race down the waterslide

Grab a friend and race down The Perfect Storm waterslides.

• Casino Royale

Try your luck at Royal Caribbean's own on-board casino.

• Get a taste of Broadway

Enjoy a night at the theater and see some of the best Broadway musicals at sea. Productions may vary, but some recent ones have been Grease and Mamma Mia!.

• Movie Nights

Head to the pool deck and catch a movie on the 220-square-foot screen.

• Ice Skating

Hard to believe, right? On Independence of the Seas, you can tie up your skates and go ice skating. For those who'd rather watch, be sure to catch one of the ice shows.

Restaurants

• The Windjammer: Your one stop-shop for the best variety of foods any time of day. The Windjammer is a buffet-style eatery with a number of cuisines available and is sure to be a winner with even the pickiest eaters in your group. The best part? It's included with your cruise fare!

• Sorrento's Pizza: A Royal Caribbean staple. Grab a quick slice from Sorrento's no matter what time of day - whether you're taking a break from a sunny afternoon at the pool or finishing up an evening of dancing.

• Giovanni's Table: Get your fill of delicious Italian food at Giovanni's. You definitely will not leave hungry.

• Chops Grille: Craving a steak? Chops Grille on Independence of the Seas offers the best cuts of steak on board. This specialty restaurant has the look (and taste) of a traditional steakhouse.

• Playmakers Bar and Arcade: Don't want to miss your team play while on board? Head to Playmakers and grab your favorite game day snacks.

Bars

• Boleros: You may hear Boleros before you see it. This lively Latin-themed club is known for its live music and dancing once the sun goes down. It's the perfect place to sip on a mojito and get your salsa on.

• Schooner Bar: Want the live music minus the dancing? Schooner Bar has performances daily. Grab a beer, sit back and enjoy!

• Solarium Bar: Enjoy a drink while overlooking the pool deck. Solarium Bar offers some of the best views on the ship with its floor-to-ceiling windows and 360 views.

• Vintages: For the wine connoisseurs on board, Vintages is your spot. Head here for a glass (or two) while people-watching on the Royal Promenade.