Trip Report for Royal Caribbean-Freedom of the Seas

This ship was “amped up” back in 2020 and there are many fun activities for everyone in the family. Here are a few of my favorites:

Family Fun

Splashaway Bay: A wonderful amenity for the kiddos. A water park for featuring slides, water cannons, fountains and much more.

Adventure Ocean Youth Program: Parents enjoy dropping their children off so that they can engage in educational activities. Children are grouped by ages-toddlers to teens. There is something for everyone.

Mini Golf: Enjoy a round of mini-golf with the family on the ship’s fun and challenging course.

FlowRider Surf Simulator: Catch a wave on this 40-foot-long surf simulator, perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers.

Rock Climbing Wall: The 40-foot-tall rock climbing wall offers stunning views of the ocean once you reach the top.

Ice Skating Rink: Glide across the ice in the ship’s onboard rink, or enjoy spectacular ice shows performed by professional skaters.

Vitality Spa: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment, from massages to facials and body wraps.

Adults-Only Solarium: While you leave the kids at the camp, you can relax in this serene space, complete with whirlpools, a pool and comfortable loungers.

Fitness Center: Stay active with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group exercise classes and personal training sessions.

Image 1: FlowRider ride ; Image 2: Garden of Remembrance in Nassau Bahamas

Entertainment

Royal Caribbean can brag about their Broadway Style shows. You will experience dazzling performances in the main theater, featuring high-energy musicals and productions. A family cruise ship would not be complete without an onboard casino. Casino Royale has it all. Try your luck there, because they offer a range of games from poker to slot machines. After dinner and the kids are all settled in, you can pay a little extra something to the staff at Adventure Ocean and enjoy live music and the cool nightlife.

Dance the night away at the ship’s vibrant bars and clubs, or relax with live music performances.

Image 1: Over the water cabanas at the beach at CocoCay ; Image 2: Walking down the path at CocoCay

Dining Options

Who doesn’t like a sit-down dinner where you can be served by a server. Enjoy gourmet meals in an elegant setting, with a diverse menu that changes nightly. Depending on the itinerary, you can have a “Caribbean-themed” night or other types of delicious dishes from all over the world. If you want a specific type of fare, you can choose to make a reservation at one of several Specialty Restaurants. Indulge in specialty dining at venues like Chops Grille (steakhouse), Giovanni’s Table (Italian) and Izumi (Japanese cuisine). Let your clients know if they book a balcony or above with a Fora advisor, this option will be complimentary (value of up to $150). If you want a quick bite or more variety, you can choose Windjammer Café. A casual buffet offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Image 1: Maxxi's Cabbage Beach has the best grilled fish and chips on that side of Nassau-hidden gem and even stronger drinks ; Image 2: The best gelato spot in Nassau, Bahamas

Shopping

Your trip would not be complete if you didn’t indulge in a little “me” time and shop til you drop. The Royal Promenade is the stop you cannot do without. Stroll along this bustling boulevard lined with shops, cafés and bars, perfect for some leisurely shopping. If you are into designer bags like me, you will find some gently used and certified bags. For all you art lovers, the Art Auctions will leave you in awe. Attend art auctions and view a diverse collection of artwork available for purchase. You will notice a few people walking around with cameras taking pictures all over the ship. Be sure to stop by the photo shop and see the captured memories that you created throughout your cruise.

What should I pack?

Packing for any cruise involves what types of activities and dress code that you plan on doing both on and off the ship. Here’s a comprehensive list to help you prepare:

Documents

I cannot stress this enough. My family and I drove to Miami and 3 hours into our drive, we realized that we left our passports on the kitchen counter! We had to drive back in a blizzard in February and lost six hours of driving time! It is extremely important to keep your crucial documents like your Passport or government-issued photo ID very close to you. Credit cards and some cash to spend. Medical insurance cards, as well as emergency contact information, just in case.

Clothing

Daytime Attire

It is important to dress for the weather. In February, the weather in the Bahamas can be a little cooler than normal. Be sure to pack a few casual outfits (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops) Swimwear if you plan on swimming on the beach. Cover-ups for the pool, sun hat or cap, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes or sandals and of course, activewear for the gym (to keep your weight in check)

Evening Attire

Casual attire for casual dining nights (smart casual). There is at least one night where we got spiffy for Captain’s Night-formal attire (suit and tie or cocktail dress), dress shoes or heels — accessories (jewelry, belts, etc.)

Outerwear

Packing for indoor and outdoor conditions is important. I would recommend a light jacket or sweater (it can get cool indoors) and Rain jacket or poncho (depending on the destination)

Hygiene Products

* The worst thing that could happen to me is to leave my essential hygiene home. I always make sure to pack my important documents along with my toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash (travel-sized if preferred), deodorant, hairbrush or comb, hair styling products, makeup and makeup remover, sunscreen (for the beach or onboard), moisturizer, prescription medications and a copy of the prescription and over-the-counter medications (motion sickness, pain relievers, etc.). For health and safety, I also include hand sanitizer, masks (if required), insect repellent and a first-aid kit.

Accessories and Miscellaneous

* The best thing about a family cruise is making sure that you capture those moments of wonder, rest and relaxation! Bring a camera or smartphone with a charger, a power strip or multi-port USB charger (non-surge-protected), a reusable water bottle, a daypack or beach bag, a waterproof phone case, a lanyard for your SeaPass card (or buy one onboard for $20), and a small amount of laundry detergent if you plan on hand washing any items.

Entertainment and Tech

* If you are like my husband and teenage daughter, they cannot live without the devices. Be sure to pack those tablets or laptops (with chargers), headphones so they can listen to the downloaded movies, music or e-books. For me personally, I will bring my playing cards and other travel games.

Extras

* Here is a short list of a few “extras” that you may not want to leave behind, such as Ziploc bags (for wet swimsuits or protecting electronics), laundry bags for dirty clothes and umbrellas (if you expect rain).

My advice to First-Time Cruisers:

Plan Ahead- You should download the Royal Caribbean app on your phone in order to book excursions, specialty dining and spa treatments in advance to secure your preferred times and activities.

Embarkation Day: Arrive early on embarkation day to avoid long lines and make the most of your first day onboard. Familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and amenities.

Daily Planner: Check the daily planner (Cruise Compass) delivered to your stateroom each evening to stay informed about activities, shows and events happening the next day.

Gratuities: Gratuities are often automatically added to your onboard account, but you can adjust them at guest services if needed. Familiarize yourself with the tipping policy.

Overall, Freedom of the Seas offers a dynamic and unforgettable cruising experience, ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy on their journey.