Symphony of the Seas: A Complete Guide to the Largest Cruise Ship in the World

Life out in the ocean is deep and peaceful if one gets a chance to explore it. With cruise ships taking passengers from place to place, even you can experience the utmost level of serenity and relaxation. Besides, it is a great way to take a break and get away from just traveling via airplane.

Let’s head over to a detailed guide on Symphony of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships in the world. We have also given the 2023 trip schedule in the end so that you can plan accordingly.

Symphony of the Seas | Overview

Symphony of the Seas is an Ocean-Class Cruise Ship owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. Out of all the ships built, this one holds the record for the largest passenger cruise ship with a total length of 362 meters or 1,188 feet. The ship has the capacity to carry 5,518 guests and 2,200 crew members that are accommodated in 2,759 rooms. She is made with a total of 500,000 components. The ship is considered to be a remarkable work of architecture, design, and infrastructure.

On the board, there are 5200 restaurants, 23 dining venues, and 7 unique neighborhoods to keep the guests entertained and indulging in all sorts of recreational activities. Apart from that, the Symphony of the Seas has plenty of fun water activities such as Whirlpools, Water Slides, and FlowRide Surf Simulators. Undoubtedly, it has become one of the best experiences for new couples as well as families. People from all over the world come to join the Symphony of the Seas to experience a unique lifestyle and have an ideal vacation.

Let’s uncover what you get to experience throughout your voyage!

Embarkation Day

Royal Caribbean suggests that passengers should come to the terminal at least 2 to 4 hours prior to the departure as the boarding begins by this time. As soon as you get on board, you are welcomed by the staff that checks your documents. Once the journey begins, you are once again greeted by the crew and guided regarding the itinerary, facilities, and room access. From this point on, you are in for a fun-filled exciting vacation out in the deep oceans!

Fun Things to do on Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the seas has been divided into 7 different neighborhoods each of which presents a unique theme. Here is the complete list of neighborhoods along with fun activities you can enjoy over here.

Boardwalk (Deck 6)

The most popular neighborhood on Symphony of the Seas is Boardwalk. Located on Deck 6, this neighborhood is all about fresh energy, lively vibes, and a party environment for the guests. Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade is one of the biggest places in this neighborhood covering 1938 square feet of area. Families can come and enjoy all sorts of sports over here on the huge television screens. At this bar, one can eat authentic American food including winds, shrimp, craft beer, and a variety of cocktails. If you aren’t into sports, the arcade bar can be a great way to kill time as it has several tabletop games as well as physically exhilarating ones.

One of the things we really loved about Boardwalk of Symphony of the Seas is that it features an AquaTheater. Guests can watch a range of movies, plays, and aqua acrobatic performances throughout the day and night at specific times. Some guests even suggested that it is better than an actual theater they have been to. Besides, for all your sweet cravings, you can head over to Sugar Beach Candy and Ice Cream shop which offers more than 100 types of candies and ice creams. It’s also a good place for someone fond of baking and decorating as the bakery allows you to prepare and decorate your own dessert. Sounds like a real treat!

Apart from all that, there is a carousel at the Boardwalk where your children can enjoy. Since Boardwalk is one of the biggest neighborhoods on Symphony of the Seas, you will see plenty of restaurants and small cafes over here as well. We highly recommend visiting the Boardwalk Dog House because the place sells some of the finest hot dogs you would ever eat.

Lastly, the Boardwalk also has climbing walls for enthusiasts. The 43-foot-high walls have multiple access routes and offer a great view from the top. Don’t miss it!

Central Park (Deck 8)

Are you a fan of flowers, plants, and nature? If yes, then Central Park is going to be the right neighborhood for you. Welcome to a neighborhood on Symphony of the Seas that features over 20,700 plants giving you an aesthetic vibe, mesmerizing fragrance, and a cool atmosphere. Central Park is an open-air area and is ideally located in the center of the ship on Deck 8.

One might be surprised by the fact that there are sounds of birds chirping and frogs croaking. However, it isn’t real. Instead, there are speakers installed within the plants to give a realistic feel to Central Park. If you are a fan of live music, you can experience it at night in the middle of the park where the lush greenery brings you the right mood to enjoy.

Apart from the plants, Central Park also features some of the best restaurants on the ship including 150 Central Park, Jamie’s Italian, and Vintages Wine Bar. Each of these restaurants has a great back story to it which you’ll uncover once you visit them. There is also a small cafe in the park where you can just sit around and relax while enjoying the amazing views.

One guest said, “We don’t even have such parks in cities the way they have built one over on a cruise ship”. This gives the idea of how heart-soothing and mesmerizing is the experience of being here.

Pool and Sports Zone (Deck 15)

Get to the perfect playground spot on Symphony of the Seas to enjoy a wide range of physical games and activities located on Deck 15, the topmost deck of the ship. Symphony of the Seas holds the record for having the tallest slide at the sea which is approximately 10 stories above sea level. Kids and young couples mostly go to the pool and sports zone on Symphony of the Seas because they are down for adrenaline-rushing activity.

The slides are intense and we know it because they can get you to Boardwalk Neighbourhood on Deck 6 in just about 14 seconds! There are multiple slides and routes for the visitors to enjoy. Some of them are recommended more towards the adults for them being too unusual. One thing we are sure of! You’ll definitely experience some great views of the ship around and its different neighborhoods. Take a GoPro with you to shoot a great video!

Other great family activities over here include playing with water cannons and drench buckets. If you are a thrill-seeker, don’t miss out on the signature zip line which gets you on a nine-deck high route giving the view of the entire ship!

Since this is the top of the ship, there are plenty of breath-catching views you can have over here. To make it even better, there is a Solarium over here which is glass-paneled and allowed for adults only. With a fine dining experience, aesthetic lights, and England-style seafood, you are in for a treat with your partner. You are in for a real treat at Symphony of the Seas!

Royal Promenade (Deck 5)

As soon as one enters the ship, they reach the Royal Promenade located on Deck 5. On the embarkation day, this place is most rushy with staff greeting you and other travelers boarding the ship. This is just a casual neighborhood that gives you the downtown vibes with plenty of bars, cafes, restaurants, and a dance lounge. Bionic Bar is a must-visit because you will experience robotic bartenders preparing and serving your drinks! You don’t get to see this sight every day!

Besides, the rising tide bar is also a unique bar that transports guests from deck 5 to deck 8. The bar is made on a huge lift that raises up as you enjoy the drink. It’s an 8-minute ride. If you are looking to dance, Boleros Latin Dance club, and On-Air Club. Sorrento’s Pizzeria is also here if you are looking for a delicious and cheesy meal!

Entertainment Place (Deck 4 / 5)

If you are looking for some next-level entertainment, visit the Entertainment Place located between Deck 4 and 5. There are several popular activities on these decks but the most popular one is the Royal Theater which has a capacity of over 1,400 guests. Every night, there are unique shows at the theater. It also runs Flight: Dare to Dream, an original production of Royal Caribbean. However, the schedule and shows might change from time to time so it is better to check the recent schedule from outside the theater.

Other popular activities on the Entertainment Place include laser tag battles, an ice rink for ice skating, and stand-up comedy shows as well! You will always have a new place to explore according to your entertainment preferences. Lastly, we recommend going for a romantic late-night dance with your partner to bring the love out in the ocean!

Youth Zone (Deck 14 / 15)

One of the most lively and adventurous places for kids on Symphony of the Seas is the Youth Zone. This specially designated area for kids offers a vast number of activities to keep the young ones hooked. The Adventure Ocean Youth Program offers different types of entertainment facilities, education, training, experimenting with science, indulging in arts and crafts, as well as involving the young ones in sports activities.

If you are coming as a family, you can leave the young one here while the couple can enjoy themselves. The Youth Zone is defined into different areas according to age groups. Categories include

• Royal Babies and Tots — For ages 6 months to 2 years
• Aquanuts — For ages 3 to 5 years
• Voyagers — For ages 9 to 11 years

The Adventure Science Lab is a great place for the young ones to expand their scientific knowledge in a fun manner. “PLAY” is a round area where children can participate in sports and games. The Adventure Ocean Theater plays a wide range of educational movies and talent shows for the young ones.
For teens, the Symphony of the Seas has Fuel Disco and The Living Room where the young ones can find new friends and dance along.

Fitness Center and Spa (Deck 6)

If you are someone who does not want to compromise on their health and fitness when they are on Symphony of the Seas, head over to the Fitness Center and Spa located on Deck 6. The Fitness Center over here is huge and offers an unmatched experience of exercising. The center has some of the finest equipment and modern machinery along with trainers to offer you a top-class experience.

Another great point on this deck is The Vitality Spa which comes with a Thermal Suite that allows the guests to relax in Saunas, Ceramic Loungers, and Steam Rooms. With more than 50 facial and body services, one can have the most pleasurable experience of their life here.

Men can head over to the barber shop and beauty salon for styling their hair, getting a manicure/pedicure, or a clean shave as well. For the young adventurous, there is a special Y-Spa where mother/daughter and father/son massages are offered.

Symphony of the Seas Rooms

Let’s explore the amazing rooms this ship has to offer! Of the 2,759 rooms in total, there are 188 Suites, 1,796 Balcony Staterooms, 176 Ocean View Staterooms, and 599 Interior Staterooms. Most recently, Symphony of the Seas has also announced The Ultimate Family Suite as well as Wheelchair and Special Person Rooms as well.

Suites

If you are looking for a top-notch experience on your voyage, we recommend going for a suite that offers a uniquely personalized experience with all sorts of luxury and exclusive privileges. The luxury suites represent a structure similar to a small apartment where you have a central lounge, bedrooms, dining table, and a mezzanine floor for extra bedrooms. The biggest suite has the option to cater for up to 14 people at a time since it has 4 bedrooms which have 2 master bedrooms and 2 bedrooms with convertible twin beds. Keep in mind that there are smaller suites available as well for 3 – 8 people.

If you are coming with your entire family, we highly recommend this option as you get to enjoy the cruise while staying with your family members and they are spacious as well. There are several additional perks offered in this suite which include priority boarding, concierge service, signature activities, your personal room attendant, laundry services, an espresso machine, and much more. Besides, the suites are located at the best possible location which means you have close access to the main deck as well as a breathtaking view of the ocean at all times.

Recently Added — Royal Caribbean announced the Ultimate Family Suite in Symphony of the Seas. This is an exclusive suite for families and is recommended for those coming with children. It has a special private gaming room, in-suite slides, a private jacuzzi, in-suite cinema rooms, and a royal genie (attendant). The prices of an Ultimate Family Suite range from $25,000 to $50,000 depending upon the dates, itinerary, and discounts. This suite is the most expensive one and for all the right reasons. You get the best view of the ship and the ocean while being ideally located in the popular neighborhoods on the ship!

Balcony Staterooms

As the name suggests, these rooms come with balconies so that the guests can enjoy a mesmerizing view of the ocean. These rooms usually have a single king-size bed along with a sofa-cum-bed. Apart from that, there is a table and a chair as well as a safe to keep your valuable possessions. There are bigger balcony staterooms as well which are a bit more spacious and have an extra bed to accommodate 4 people. The balcony staterooms are usually available from deck 6 onwards on Symphony of the Seas.

We recommend a balcony view for those who want to enjoy their mornings out close to the ocean and away from all the noise of the deck. Even the nights can be romantic over here with candlelight dinners on the balcony. You will also experience an unusual and dark view of the ocean during the night.

Ocean View Staterooms

If you are on a budget but don’t want to miss out on anything, we recommend choosing the Ocean View Staterooms. The only thing missing is a balcony. However, you get a big window to enjoy the spectacular views of the ocean. These rooms are generally cozy and warm, as suggested by many guests. There are two types of Ocean View Staterooms offered at Symphony of the Seas. The first one comes with a king-size bed and lounge area with a sofa.

The total area of the one-bed Ocean View Stateroom is 180 square feet. If you are coming with a group or family, you can opt for the two-bedroom which is 270 square feet and comes with one king bed and two Pullman single beds. This one is perfect if you have kids with you! For Symphony of the Seas, the price for the Ocean View Staterooms begin from $550 for a single person on a 5-day trip. The charges can vary depending upon the Itinerary, dates, number of days of the trip, and any promotions offered by Royal Caribbean.

Interior Rooms

The last of the room options available in Symphony of the Seas are the Interior Rooms. These rooms are generally the ones located between an oceanview room and the main deck. They are called interior rooms because they do not offer any kind of window view to the guests. However, a good thing about these rooms is that some of them have a virtual balcony. This means that you can experience the view of the ocean “live” without having any windows. The top-notch displays make it a very life-like simulation for the guests.

In technical aspects, these rooms can also accommodate between 2 to 4 guests normally. A few interior rooms are bigger and can accommodate around 6 to 8 people as well. The smallest interior room is around 105 square feet while the biggest one is 260 square feet. The ticket price for a single person in an Interior Room of this ship is around $411 and varies by the options you choose such as virtual balcony, boardwalk access, size of the room, and other aspects as well.

Keep this in Mind!

Following are a few important aspects to consider when choosing rooms on Symphony of the Seas.

• The Royal Caribbean offers three classes to improve the experience of guests as they stay in their rooms. The three classes include Star, Sky, and Sea Class. You can learn more about these classes over here.
• Smoking in rooms is strictly prohibited.
• Services such as in-room dinner, laundry, and any extra amenities are not included in the package.
• There are 46 special staterooms designated for handicapped people. They are available in all room categories and have special access such as wider doors, beds, lowered vanity, and much more.
• The prices for the rooms in Symphony of the Seas can vary depending on the dates and number of days. For example, prices are higher in the holiday season and lower otherwise. Similarly, if you opt for more days, the prices for the rooms are going to be higher. In general, you can get the cheapest price at around $400 while the maximum is around $8,000 per person.

Symphony of the Seas 2023 Itinerary and Ticket Prices

The following schedule is provided by Royal Caribbean for Symphony of the Seas for its trips in 2023.

All Aboard!

Now that you are aware of everything about Symphony of the Seas, it is time to pack your bags and head over to have one of the best cruise ship experiences of your life! We hope you have an amazing journey

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