Travel

World’s largest cruise ship sets sail

Two long toots of the horn signalled the departure of the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, as she left her berth in Southampton on its maiden voyage

Joan Scales
Sat May 21 2016 - 14:14

Two long toots of the horn signalled the departure of the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, as she left her berth in Southampton on its maiden voyage. Though a little later than advertised, the massive of ship turned on its own axis and headed to sea.

The fastest cruise ship steams along at 22 knots thanks to some fancy bubble technology that reduces friction on the hull. The ship can carry 5,479 guests and 2,100 crew members. Due to the design of a central open area, most cabins have balconies or windows. Some staterooms have virtual balconies where scenery from outdoors is shown on the wall to appear like a window.

On board guests were exploring the 362m long ship and all its attractions. The ship has seven zones. Central Park right in the middle does have the feel of a neighbourhood. Thousands of plants and mature trees give an airy feel to the outdoor area and there are cafes and restaurants, including a Jamie Oliver’s.

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The Boardwalk has an old fashioned carousel for children and is reminiscent of seaside towns with hotdogs, burger restaurant and climbing walls. The pools and sports zone has crazy golf, a basketball court, waterside, and Flowrider, where you can learn to surf, though the weather is a bit cold and windy for outdoor games.

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The highlight for many is the experience of sliding down the 10 storey Abyss slide. Screams can be heard all round - even the ship’s captain joined in on the action.

The Irish Times's Joan Scales shows us around the world's largest cruise ship - Harmony of the Seas. The ship can carry 5,479 guests, 2,100 crew members and has everything from basketball courts to Broadway shows on board. Video: Royal Caribbean

The ship has so much entertainment and activities it could be likened to a cross between Las Vegas and Universal Studios. There is a traditional casino where you can play the slots or roll the dice and smoke.

The Broadway show on board is Grease and every night there are a variety of music, from 80s tribute bands to jazz. There is also an outdoor aqua theatre for water shows, and kids and teenagers have their own areas and entertainment.

Food is an important part of the experience and Harmony has 20 restaurants to choose from. They include different ethnic cuisines like Japanese, Italian, Mexican and more. Fitness and pampering is catered for in the Vitality area and is just the spot to work off all the food you inevitably eat.

Royal Caribbean sees this ship as the perfect holiday for multi generational families, and having been on board I can see the appeal.