Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas made her debut in Europe to start the 2018 Mediterranean cruise season after an extensive dry dock.

Definitely taking aim the the family cruising market, the new additions and changes to Independence of the Seas are full of fun, food and fascination. The biggest changes are on the pool and sports decks where guests can race down a pair of twisting water slides on the Perfect Storm, reach for the stars on SkyPad, a virtual reality trampoline experience and a brand new water park for younger children called Splashaway Bay.

Independence of the Seas — Sky Pad at Night

Independence of the Seas — The Perfect Storm

Independence of the Seas — Luckey Climber

Independence of the Seas — FlowRider Surf Simulator

Independence of the Seas — Splashaway Bay

Independence of the Seas — Splashaway Bay

Independence of the Seas — Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

Independence of the Seas — Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

Independence of the Seas — Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade

Independence of the Seas — Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade

Here’s the full list of what’s new on Independence of the Seas:

The Perfect Storm, a duo of racing waterslides called Cyclone and Typhoon.
Glow-in-the-dark laser tag, an experience in Studio B unlike any other, where friends and family can team up to play “Battle for Planet Z”.
Puzzle Break, a new escape room experience where competitors can put their minds to the test, working together to find hidden clues and solve a series of high-tech riddles to unravel a mystery. With only 60 minutes of play, the excitement builds with each tick of the clock.**
Breathtakingly beautiful new lounges and Panoramic Oceanview staterooms adds an extra bit of extraordinary to Independence. With stunning wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling views, guests can soak up the feeling of standing on the bridge of the ship and watching the sunset over the coastline, all from the privacy of their own stateroom.
Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, enables sports fans to enjoy all the biggest live sporting events over ice-cold beers, wings, sliders and more.
Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, the exotic Asian-inspired dining experience gives guests the chance to enjoy fresh sushi and experience skilled chefs cooking tableside on teppanyaki grills.
Fish & Ships, a poolside eatery where guests can grab quintessentially British seaside treats.
Sugar Beach candy shop, a wondrous world of delicious delights, along with a few exciting surprises.

Managing Director, Royal Caribbean International UK and Ireland, Ben Bouldin said:

“Holiday time is precious, and travellers today have higher expectations and more options than ever before. We don’t just want to meet these expectations, but smash them and redefine how to holiday. From our largest yet hibachi restaurant to a virtual reality bungee trampoline experience, Independence of the Seas is set to be the most spectacular ship sailing out of Southampton this coming season.”

Independence of the Seas is sailing from Southampton, England, through November 2018, then she will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida sailing 4 & 5 night Caribbean cruises through April 2019.

For more details on Independence of the Seas, please visit the Royal Caribbean website.