Australia’s newest, biggest and most technologically advanced cruise ship made her Australian debut today, sailing into Fremantle this morning. In 10 days’ time, Ovation of the Seas will reach her new home port in Sydney, offering Aussies the opportunity to take the biggest cruise holiday of their lives.
Built at a cost of US$1 billion, Royal Caribbean’s newest megaliner has a capacity for almost 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew, making her the fourth biggest ship in the world and the largest ever to sail Australian waters.
Boasting some of the most thrilling, exciting, luxurious and adventurous experiences on a superliner ever, Ovation of the Seas goes beyond what anyone thought possible on a cruise ship, introducing a whole new way to holiday, known as “SuperCruising”.
Here are just 10 things we never thought we could do on a cruise ship!
1. Skydiving
A must-do for adrenaline junkies, dare devils and thrill-seekers, the RipCord by iFLY is the first ever skydiving simulator at sea. This seven-metre tall wind tunnel allows you to experience the thrill of skydiving in a completely safe and controlled environment, with the added bonus of stunning sea views.
2. Bumper Cars
Get behind the wheel of a bumper car and take it for a spin at SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea. In addition to 30 bumper cars, it also boasts a roller rink, full-size basketball court, a circus school, floating DJ booth and a food truck.
3. Luxurious loft suites
Ovation of the Seas offers a range of modern spaces and accommodations which ooze comfort and luxury. Ideal for families and groups, the ship’s open-plan, two-storey loft suites can sleep up to six people, and feature a generous lounge and dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views.
4. Cocktail-making robots
As Australia’s most technologically advanced ship, it should only be fitting that having robots as bartenders is all part of the experience. Head to the Bionic Bar, place your order via a tablet and watch as the robot mixologists shake, muddle and stir your cocktail, while they dance to your favourite music.
5. Jamie Oliver
One of the world’s most popular chefs, Jamie Oliver has brought his famous Italian dining experience to sea. Jamie’s Italian serves up Italian favourites such as authentic pasta dishes, antipasto and dolce in a relaxed and fun atmosphere the whole family can enjoy.
6. Flying pod
Take in the breathtaking view at more than 90 metres above the ocean in the North Star. Taking out the Guinness World Record for the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship, this glass pod is the closest to space you can get on the high seas, offering incredible 360-degree views.
7. Surfing
Surf or boogie-board your way across the Pacific on the FlowRider, the ship’s 40-foot-long surf simulator. Sending water at a very high speed, the simulator mimics what its like to surf on the ocean. You can ride it as many times as you wish and you can also book private one-hour lessons for an additional cost.
8. Circus school
Add acrobatics to your SuperCruising adventure in the Circus School, located in SeaPlex. Learn some great moves on the flying trapeze and show off to your fellow passengers as you glide through the air and fly high in no time.
9. Wonderland
Take a trip down the rabbit hole and experience a magical on-board dining experience unlike any other. Inspired by the famous stories of Alice in Wonderland, this whimsical restaurant’s incredible décor and creative dishes will dazzle your imagination as well as your tastebuds.
10. Fastest WiFi at sea
When there’s so much fun and adventure to be had onboard, no one wants to waste time waiting for their social media pics and posts to upload. Thankfully, with the fastest WiFi at sea, it’s a thing of the past, so you can surf, download, stream and stay connected to your heart’s content as you cruise the oceans.
