Back in 2014, Royal Caribbean Cruises returned their ship Voyager of the Seas to service in Australia, following a $3 million overhaul that included everything from a brand new “Surf Rider at Sea” – the FlowRider – to three new restaurants, a 3D Cinema and more. Back around that time, we told you about the massive Facebook party they threw to celebrate the ship’s relaunch, and now today we’ll take you through a night on board the ship, from the spacious cabins through to her new on board Japanese restaurant.
Here’s a look at the spacious outdoor area, with multiple pools, bars and places to eat and relax.
The main shopping area of the cruise ship is pretty impressive – it’s like a mini mall you’d find in Las Vegas, complete with nearby access to the gambling area (naturally) and this old school diner / cafe. Elsewhere on the ship you’ll also find the American burger chain Johnnie Rocket’s!
The private rooms are as comfortable as any hotel room – just the view is slightly different! The bathrooms are small, as they are in any room, on any cruise ship – but they have everything you need, especially for a voyage as short as this.
And this is the balcony that sits just outside those curtains, with a pretty wonderful view while we were still docked at Circular Quay in Sydney Harbour.
The games room! We spent much of the night playing Guitar Hero. No regrets.
One of the many on board entertainment lounges.
The new on board Japanese restaurant Izumi delivers some incredible food, on par with any restaurant you’ve been to in Sydney or otherwise. I was impressed by the range and quality of the product. It’s not pictured here, but we enjoyed plenty of sushi as well as the fried goods and edamame pictured. The floor-to-ceiling windows are also a nice touch.
The outdoor entertainment area lights up in the evening with live performances.
Fireworks are blasted over Sydney Harbour as we begin our brief voyage. If you ever see random fireworks in Sydney Harbour, chances are it’s because a cruise is disembarking. Either that or didn’t look at your watch and it’s Midnight on New Years Eve.
One of the many bars aboard the vessel, this one had an “old time” ship look and feel and is a perfect spot to enjoy a whiskey on the rocks after the sun has set.
For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to make a booking, visit http://www.royalcaribbean.com.au/, call 1800 754 500 or visit your local travel agent.
Photos by the author. This article was originally published in December 2014, following a trip provided by Royal Caribbean Cruises as part of a special media night earlier that month.
———-
