Cruising on the Harmony of the Seas

Posted - March 17, 2017

More than 2,000 crew members work tirelessly to ensure that each of the over 5,000 passengers have the best possible experience at sea.

Partake in an endless variety of activities, enjoy stage performances, try your luck in the casino, lounge poolside or in Central Park, dine in any of the multiple restaurants, have a cocktail served at a Bionic Bar or take a ride on the Rising Tide Bar, which travels between decks 5 and 8. Thrill seekers can take the plunge on a 10-story slide called the Ultimate Abyss, sail down The Perfect Storm water slide, climb a rock wall or zip line across the stern of the ship. Several pools and whirlpools are available in addition to an area to surf and boogie board. Play a round of mini golf, have fun in the arcade or take a ride on a carousel. Adults can take a break in the Solarium, a tranquil respite complete with a Bistro.

I was fortunate to have been invited to the two-night Inaugural Sailing and Naming Ceremony of the Harmony of the Seas last November. Docked in Fort Lauderdale, the pier is approximately five miles from the Fort Lauderdale airport. Always consider arriving the day prior to your cruise. The hotel stay the night before sailing gets you in vacation mode and removes the stress of potential travel delays. 

Arrival on the Harmony of the Seas was at noon, beyond that our itinerary was nonstop. Day one onboard began with lunch, a self-guided tour of the ship, meeting in the Royal Theater to watch the naming ceremony being televised from the Aqua Theater, dinner and two shows. By now it is midnight and the lounges and Promenade deck are alive with music and dancing. 

On day two the Harmony of the Seas docked in Nassau, Bahamas. One of the many excursions offered was a day at the Atlantis Water Park. The Atlantis is huge and the water park is great, with slides, lazy rivers, river rapids and beaches. Nighttime entertainment onboard ship includes various musical venues, comedy shows and headline entertainment. 

Royal Caribbean took the best features of sister ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas to create the Harmony of the Seas. Although the ship offers nonstop activity, you can choose your own itinerary. Your vacation on the Harmony of the Seas includes as much or as little as you wish.