Thinking about setting sail on the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas ship? You’re in the right spot! We’ll give you the lowdown on what makes this ship stand out, why you should book a trip, and all the details you need to know.
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
Jo, our cruise travel agent will personally search for the right cruise for you.
What Makes Symphony Of The Seas Different and Unique?
The Symphony Of The Seas cruise ship is a massive, innovative ship that offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s one of the largest cruise ships in the world, part of the Royal Caribbean International fleet. With its state-of-the-art facilities, varied entertainment options, and numerous dining venues, it’s designed to cater to all types of travellers.
🛳️ Pro Tip: Central Park Cabin
I booked a Central Park Balcony stateroom, and it was a total game-changer. It’s much quieter and more chill than the ocean-view balconies. The Central Park area has real plants, trees, and often some live classical guitar music, making it super relaxing. Plus, I had quick access to awesome specialty restaurants like 150 Central Park and Jamie’s Italian.
What's included:
When you book a cruise on the Symphony Of The Seas, you get access to a wide range of facilities and activities included in your fare. Here’s what you can enjoy without any extra charges:
Dining
- Main Dining Room: Enjoy a variety of meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Windjammer Marketplace: This buffet restaurant offers a wide range of international dishes for all meals.
- Park Café: Casual dining with sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
- Sorrento’s Pizza: Enjoy delicious pizza by the slice.
- Boardwalk Dog House: Hot dogs with various toppings.
- Café Promenade: Open 24 hours for snacks and light bites.
- El Loco Fresh: Tacos and Mexican cuisine.
Entertainment
- Broadway-Style Shows: Full-length productions in the Royal Theater.
- AquaTheater Shows: Spectacular water-based performances.
- Ice Skating Shows: Amazing ice skating performances in Studio B.
- Live Music: Various venues offering live music and performances.
- Movies: Outdoor movie nights by the pool.
Activities
- Pools and Hot Tubs: Multiple pools and hot tubs available throughout the ship.
- Sports: Access to the basketball court, mini-golf, and table tennis.
- FlowRider: Surf simulator experience.
- Zip Line: Zip across nine decks above the Boardwalk.
- Rock Climbing Wall: Climb to the top for stunning views.
- Ice Skating: Public skating sessions in Studio B.
- Adventure Ocean: Kids’ club with activities for various age groups.
- Fitness Center: State-of-the-art gym with equipment and some fitness classes.
Other Inclusions
- Room Service: Complimentary continental breakfast delivered to your room.
- Youth Programs: Supervised activities for kids and teens.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Entry to various nightclubs and lounges on the ship.
- Basic Internet: Access to basic Wi-Fi for checking emails and social media.
🛳️ Pro Tip: Escape the Crowds
For a less crowded dining spot, I hit up the Solarium Bistro for breakfast and lunch. It’s like a hidden gem that most people miss. This place has a relaxed vibe with tasty, healthy options, and it’s way quieter than the main dining areas.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide range of activities | Can be crowded |
| Excellent dining options | Higher cost compared to smaller ships |
| Family-friendly | Can feel overwhelming due to its size |
| Innovative entertainment | Some activities and dining options cost extra |
| High-quality service | Itinerary might be less flexible |
🛳️ Review:
“Amazing Vacation!” I had an incredible time on the Symphony Of The Seas. So many activities and dining options! The Central Park Balcony was perfect for us. Only downside: some specialty dining was a bit pricey.
Quick Facts about This ship
Helpful Symphony of the Seas ship details:
- Launched: 2018
- Capacity: 6,680 passengers
- Crew: 2,200 members
- Length: 362.1 meters (1,188 feet)
- Decks: 18
- Staterooms: 2,759
- Pools: 23 pools, hot tubs, and water slides
- Restaurants: 20 dining options, including specialty restaurants
- Theaters: 2 main theaters, including an AquaTheater
- Zip Line: 9 decks high
- Ultimate Abyss: Tallest slide at sea
- FlowRiders: 2 surf simulators
- Ice Skating Rink: Yes
- Mini-Golf: Yes
- Sports Court: Full-sized basketball court
- Spa and Fitness Center: Full-service spa and state-of-the-art fitness center
- Internet: Various packages available, including basic Wi-Fi
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
Jo, our cruise travel agent will personally search for the right cruise for you.
History and Cost to Build
The Symphony Of The Seas is a part of Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking Oasis Class, designed to push the boundaries of cruise ship innovation. It was built by STX France at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The construction began in 2015 and the ship was officially launched in March 2018.
Building the Symphony Of The Seas was a massive engineering feat, with a price tag to match. The cost to build this floating city was approximately $1.35 billion (around £1 billion). This investment has resulted in a state-of-the-art cruise ship that has a massive range of amenities, activities, and dining options, making it one of the most impressive cruise ships in the world.
Adults Only or Family Cruise
The RCCL Symphony of the Seas is great for both families and adults. There are chill adult-only areas like the Solarium for some quiet time, while families can enjoy tons of kid-friendly activities and entertainment.
Singles, Solo
Solo travellers won’t feel left out with loads of activities and social events to meet new people. There are special solo cabins, though they might be a bit pricier.
Medical Facilities
The ship has a fully equipped medical centre to handle any health issues that come up during your trip.
Dress Code
The dress code is pretty casual, but there are some formal nights where you might want to dress up a bit.
Gratuities and Tipping
Gratuities are usually added to your account daily. You can pre-pay them when booking or pay onboard. Or opt out at the desk.
Things to do & Activities
When it comes to facilities and activities, the Symphony Of The Seas has you covered. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
Spa
The spa on the cruise liner Symphony Of The Seas has a variety of treatments such as Swedish massages, hot stone therapy, facials, and body wraps. There’s also a thermal suite with heated loungers, saunas, and steam rooms, perfect for unwinding after a day of activities.
Gym
The gym is state-of-the-art, equipped with the latest fitness machines and free weights. Enjoy cardio equipment like treadmills and ellipticals, strength training machines, and a free weights area. For those who prefer group workouts, there are fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and even boot camp sessions.
Games
For game enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of options. The ship features a mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, table tennis, and an arcade filled with video games and classic favourites.
Library
The ship’s library is a quiet place for book lovers. It has a wide selection of books ranging from novels and biographies to travel guides and non-fiction. With comfortable seating and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax with a good book.
Adventure Activities
- FlowRider Surf Simulator: Ride the waves without leaving the ship.
- Ultimate Abyss: A ten-story slide offering a thrilling descent. Did you know? The Ultimate Abyss on the Symphony Of The Seas is the tallest slide at sea, standing at over 150 feet above sea level!
- Zip Line: Stretches nine decks above the Boardwalk for an exhilarating experience.
- Rock Climbing Walls: Challenge yourself with various climbing routes.
- Ice Skating Rink: Enjoy skating at sea, a unique and fun activity.
Symphony Of The Seas Boardwalk
The Boardwalk on the Symphony Of The Seas is a super fun, open-air area that feels like a seaside pier. It’s got loads of activities and eats for everyone. Grab a hot dog at the Boardwalk Dog House or some sweets at Sugar Beach.
The kids (and kids at heart) can ride the cool hand-carved carousel. If you’re feeling brave, take a ride down the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea. Don’t miss the AquaTheater at the end of the Boardwalk for some amazing water shows. The Boardwalk is definitely the place to be for fun and excitement on the ship.
Glow-in-the-Dark Laser Tag
On the Symphony Of The Seas, the glow-in-the-dark laser tag experience is called “Battle for Planet Z.” Here’s what you can expect:
- Arena: The laser tag arena is a futuristic, space-themed environment filled with neon lights and glowing obstacles. The dark setting with vibrant colours makes the game visually exciting and immersive.
- Equipment: You’ll be equipped with a laser gun and a vest with target sensors that glow in the dark. The gear is designed to be easy to use and adds to the fun, sci-fi atmosphere.
- Gameplay: The objective is simple: tag as many opponents as possible by hitting their sensors with your laser. You can play in teams or individually, and the game is usually timed. The player or team with the most points at the end wins.
- Special Effects: The arena features cool effects like fog, dramatic lighting, and thematic music to enhance the experience and make it feel like a real intergalactic battle.
- Fun for All Ages: It’s a family-friendly activity that’s great for kids, teens, and adults alike. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy some friendly competition and get active.
Entertainment
The Symphony Of The Seas is packed with fun and entertainment to keep you busy day and night. Here’s the scoop on what you can get into:
Theatres
There are two main theatres on board. The Royal Theater is where you’ll catch Broadway-style shows like “Hairspray” and unique productions from Royal Caribbean. Then there’s the AquaTheater, an outdoor spot where you can watch amazing water shows with acrobats and high divers doing their thing.
Casinos
If you’re feeling lucky, head over to Casino Royale. It’s got all the classic games – slot machines, poker, blackjack, roulette, and more. It’s like having a bit of Vegas right on the ship!
Bars and Lounges
You’ll never be thirsty with all the bars and lounges around:
- Boleros: This is the place for a Latin vibe. Enjoy live music and maybe even show off your salsa moves.
- Schooner Bar: Nautical-themed and cosy, perfect for sing-alongs with the piano player.
- Bionic Bar: Robots make your drinks here. Yep, robots! It’s super cool to watch.
- Rising Tide Bar: This bar slowly moves between three decks. It’s a fun way to enjoy a drink and get a unique view of the ship.
Dancing
Love to dance? You’ve got plenty of options. Dazzles is a nightclub with live music and a dance floor that stays busy late into the night. The ship also throws themed parties, and you can join dance classes to learn salsa, ballroom, and more.
Restaurants and Drinks
Cruises on Symphony Of The Seas come with a ton of excellent dining options and drink packages. Here’s what you can expect:
Restaurants
There’s a huge range of places to eat, from casual bites to fine dining:
- Main Dining Room: A classic cruise experience with a rotating menu and three meals a day.
- Windjammer Marketplace: The buffet spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a variety of international dishes.
🛳️ Review:
“Perfect for Families!” Our family had a blast. The kids loved Splashaway Bay and Adventure Ocean. Food was great, especially at Windjammer. The main pool was crowded at times, but overall, a wonderful experience. Thanks About2Cruise!
Specialty Restaurants (Extra Cost)
These dining venues offer unique experiences and have an additional charge:
- Jamie’s Italian: Enjoy Italian favourites by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, with fresh pasta and delicious desserts. Cost: £20-£30 per person.
- Izumi Hibachi & Sushi: Perfect for sushi lovers and those who enjoy a fun hibachi experience. Cost: £15-£30 per person.
- Hooked Seafood: Get your fill of New England-style seafood, including lobster rolls and crab claws. Cost: £20-£40 per person.
- 150 Central Park: A fine dining venue with a farm-to-table menu and a romantic atmosphere. Cost: £30-£50 per person.
- Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: Burgers, wings, and plenty of screens to catch your favourite sports. Cost: £10-£15 per person.
- Chops Grille: A classic American steakhouse serving high-quality cuts of meat. Cost: £30-£40 per person.
- Wonderland: An imaginative dining experience with avant-garde cuisine and a whimsical atmosphere. Cost: £30-£50 per person.
🛳️ Review:
I ate at Jamie’s Italian on the Symphony Of The Seas, and it was one of the best meals I had on the cruise. The handmade pasta, especially the prawn linguine, was super tasty. The place has a fun, casual vibe, and the staff were really friendly and helpful.
One small downside was the wait time. Even with a reservation, we had to wait about 20 minutes for our table. It was a bit annoying, but the delicious food and great service made up for it.
Coastal Kitchen on Symphony Of The Seas
Coastal Kitchen is an exclusive dining venue on the Symphony Of The Seas designed specifically for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members. It blends Mediterranean influences with California freshness, offering a unique and upscale dining experience.
The menu features a variety of dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, such as grilled meats, seafood, and vibrant salads.
Located in a stylish and comfortable setting, Coastal Kitchen provides a serene atmosphere with ocean views, perfect for a relaxed meal away from the busier dining areas. If you’re staying in a suite, this is a must-visit spot for delicious food and top-notch service.
Drink Packages & Costs
To make things easy, you can opt for drink packages that cover a variety of beverages:
- Deluxe Beverage Package: Includes cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, non-alcoholic drinks, premium coffee, tea, bottled water, and fresh juices. Cost: £55-£65 per day.
- Refreshment Package: Covers non-alcoholic drinks, including premium coffee, tea, bottled water, fresh juices, and mocktails. Cost: £25-£30 per day.
- Classic Soda Package: Unlimited refills of fountain sodas and a souvenir cup. Cost: £10-£15 per day.
🛳️ Pro Tip: Royal Caribbean App
Yes, they have an app! Download the Royal Caribbean app before you board. It’s super handy for checking the daily schedule, booking activities, making dining reservations, and even communicating with other guests. It made my trip so much easier and more organised.
Cabin Choices
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Symphony of the Seas Interior Cabins
Interior cabins are the most budget-friendly option. They offer all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including a private bathroom, TV, and a small seating area. Some interior cabins come with a virtual balcony that shows real-time views outside. Total number of interior cabins: 766
Ocean View Cabins
These cabins offer a window with views of the ocean, perfect for those who like to see the sea without stepping outside. They include all the standard amenities plus a bit more natural light. Total number of ocean view cabins: 176
Balcony Cabins
Balcony cabins provide private outdoor space with seating, allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea air and views right from your room. They come with all the standard amenities and are a popular choice for many travellers. Total number of balcony cabins: 1,818
Suites
Suites offer the most luxurious experience on the ship. They come in various sizes, from junior suites to the expansive Royal Suite. Suites include extra perks like concierge service, priority boarding, and access to exclusive areas. Total number of suites: 188
Single Cabins
The Symphony Of The Seas also caters to solo travellers with special single cabins. These rooms are smaller but include all the essentials. They might be a bit pricier per person compared to sharing a double cabin but offer the convenience and privacy of your own space. Total number of single cabins: 28
Family Cabins
Designed for families, these cabins offer more space and can include multiple rooms or bunk beds for kids. They’re perfect for keeping everyone together while ensuring comfort for all. Total number of family cabins: 96
Swimming Pools
The Symphony Of The Seas has loads of swimming pools and water fun for you. Here’s what you can dive into:
Main Pool Area
The main pool area is where all the action happens. It has several pools, including a beach pool with a sloped entry, perfect for chilling in shallow water. There’s plenty of room for you to swim, sunbathe, and just soak up the sun.
Sports Pool
If you’re into staying active, the sports pool is your spot. It’s used for water sports like pool volleyball and water basketball. It’s always buzzing with energy, so join in or watch the fun.
Splashaway Bay
For the kids, Splashaway Bay is a colourful water park with slides, water cannons, fountains, and splash pads. It’s a safe, fun zone where kids can play and splash around.
Solarium
The Solarium is an adults-only escape with a pool and whirlpools in a peaceful, glass-enclosed space. It’s perfect if you want to relax away from the busy main pool areas. You’ll find comfy loungers and a chilled-out vibe here.
Ultimate Abyss
The Ultimate Abyss isn’t a pool, but it’s worth a mention. It’s the tallest dry slide on any cruise ship, giving you an adrenaline rush as you slide down from way up high.
Water Slides
Check out the Perfect Storm trio of water slides for some serious fun. They twist and turn, giving you a thrilling ride down to the pool. This water slide is featured in our top 17 cruise ships with water slides.
Hot Tubs
There are hot tubs all around the ship, including some with awesome ocean views. It’s a great way for you to relax and unwind after a busy day exploring the ship or ports.
Other Royal Caribbean Ships with Water Slides
If you love water slides, Royal Caribbean has you covered on several ships. The Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas both feature the Perfect Storm slides, similar to those on the Symphony Of The Seas. The Navigator of the Seas offers The Blaster, the longest aqua coaster at sea, and Riptide, the headfirst mat racer slide. The Liberty of the Seas has the Tidal Wave, a boomerang-style slide, along with a pair of waterslides called the Cyclone and Typhoon.
No-Fly UK Ports
RCL Symphony Of The Seas departs from several convenient no-fly UK ports, making it easy to start your cruise without the hassle of flying. Here are the main ports you can depart from:
- Southampton
- Liverpool
- Harwich
- Newcastle
- Tilbury (London)
- Greenock (Glasgow)
- Belfast
🛳️ Pro Tip: Pre-Book Your Shows
To dodge long lines and avoid missing out, I pre-booked seats for the popular shows like the AquaTheater performances and Broadway-style productions. I also reserved spots for cool activities like the escape room and ice skating. You can do this on the onboard app.
Where does it go?
The Symphony Of The Seas locations take you to some of the most amazing destinations around the world. Here’s a quick look at where you can sail:
Caribbean Cruises
Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand in the Caribbean. Sail to beautiful islands like the Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Thomas, and Cozumel. Explore stunning beaches, vibrant local cultures, and exciting water sports.
Mediterranean Cruise
Cruise the historic and picturesque Mediterranean. Visit iconic cities such as Barcelona, Rome, Naples, and Marseille. Enjoy rich history, incredible cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.
Northern Europe
Experience the charm and beauty of Northern Europe. Sail to destinations like Copenhagen, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, and Helsinki. Discover historic landmarks, unique cultures, and stunning natural landscapes.
Transatlantic
Take a transatlantic journey that combines relaxation and exploration. Sail from Europe to the Americas, with stops in unique destinations along the way.
Sister Ships of Symphony Of The Seas
The Symphony Of The Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. Its sister ships are:
- Oasis of the Seas
- Allure of the Seas
- Harmony of the Seas
- Wonder of the Seas (launched in March 2022)
These ships share many features and amenities, offering similar fantastic cruise experiences.
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
Jo, our cruise travel agent will personally search for the right cruise for you.