Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas 4-Day Western Caribbean Cruise Review
Independence of the Seas is a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship that was launched in 2008. It is one of the largest and most technologically advanced cruise ships in the world. The ship has a length of 1,112 feet (339 meters) and a maximum width of 185 feet (56 meters). It has a gross tonnage of 160,000 and can accommodate up to 4,375 passengers and 1,360 crew members.
Independence of the Seas is powered by six diesel-electric engines and has a top speed of 21.6 knots (40 km/h). The ship has a propulsion system that includes three 20 MW Azipod propulsion units and three 5.5 MW bow thrusters. This system provides the ship with excellent maneuverability and allows it to perform precise docking maneuvers.
The ship has numerous entertainment and recreational facilities, including a 40-foot (12 meters) high rock-climbing wall, a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice-skating rink, a full-size basketball court, a mini-golf course, and multiple swimming pools and whirlpools. It also has a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa.
The ship’s interior features a range of dining and entertainment options, including several restaurants, bars, lounges, and theaters. It also has a large casino and shopping mall.
Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas 4-Day Western Caribbean Cruise Review
Date: November 26 – November 30, 2015
Itinerary:
Port Everglades (FL): Port Everglades is a world-class cruise port located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and is one of the most popular departure ports for cruise vacations in the world. The port boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities that cater to the needs of cruise passengers, making it an ideal starting point for unforgettable cruise experiences.
Port Everglades has eight cruise terminals that are designed to provide a smooth and efficient embarkation and disembarkation process for passengers. Each terminal is equipped with modern facilities and amenities, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, restrooms, and waiting areas. The terminals are staffed by friendly and knowledgeable personnel who are dedicated to providing the best possible service to passengers.
Port Everglades is conveniently located near many popular tourist destinations, including Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Everglades, and the city of Miami. This makes it easy for cruise passengers to extend their vacation and explore the surrounding area before or after their cruise.
Cozumel (Mexico): Cozumel is a popular tourist destination located in the Caribbean Sea, off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Cozumel is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean and has a total area of 189 square miles (490 square kilometers). The island has a population of approximately 100,000 people and is accessible by ferry from the nearby mainland city of Playa del Carmen.
Cozumel has a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists to enjoy, including water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, which are home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays.
In addition to water sports, Cozumel has a number of cultural and historical attractions, such as the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, which are located in the middle of the island. The island also has a number of restaurants, bars, and shops that cater to tourists, as well as a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.
Cozumel is a popular stop for cruise ships, with many major cruise lines including it as a port of call. The island has a cruise terminal that can accommodate multiple ships at once, making it a convenient and popular destination for cruise passengers. The port has a range of services and amenities for passengers, including transportation services, shopping, and dining options.
Independence of the Seas Accommodations:
For this Western Caribbean cruise, I booked a Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony, 6412, which was an aft-facing balcony stateroom. Aft-facing balcony staterooms, which are located at the back of the ship offer stunning views of the wake and the horizon. These staterooms are a popular choice for guests who enjoy the tranquility and privacy of their own balcony, as well as the thrill of watching the ship’s propulsion and the sea breeze.
The aft-facing balcony staterooms on Independence of the Seas are spacious and well-appointed, with a comfortable seating area, a queen-size or two twin beds, a private bathroom with a shower, and a large balcony with a table and chairs. The balconies offer unobstructed views of the sea and are a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh ocean air.
The staterooms are also equipped with modern amenities, such as a flat-screen TV, a telephone, a safe, a hairdryer, and a mini-bar. Guests can also enjoy complimentary room service, 24-hour room service, and daily housekeeping service.
In addition to the amenities in the staterooms, guests staying in aft-facing balcony staterooms have access to all the facilities and activities on the ship, including multiple swimming pools and whirlpools, a rock-climbing wall, a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice-skating rink, a full-size basketball court, a mini-golf course, and a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa. There are also multiple dining options, including specialty restaurants and cafes, as well as bars and lounges offering a range of drinks and entertainment.
Personal Day-By-Day Independence of the Seas Western Caribbean Cruise Review:
Photo Tour of Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas:
During my cruise on Independence of the Seas, I took many photos of the ship’s impressive features and amenities. From the stateroom to the dining options and entertainment, there was always something to see and do on board. You can see what it’s like onboard by checking out my photo tour.