Last November, I had the opportunity to sail on Royal Caribbean newest ship, Quantum of the Seas. I must say that I am not the biggest fan of cruising. I always found it kind of cheesy (must be the Carnival commercials from the ’90s that are stuck in my mind.  When I asked the CEO of Royal Caribbean if the ship’s objective was to convert the cruise adverse he simply answered that Quantum of the Seas is not a cruise experience but a vacation experience. Needless to say, the experience might have converted me to cruising. Here’s a photo essay of my favorite moments on ship:

Felicia: the Ship’s Mascot

The deck: Although it was pretty cold out, I made it a point to wake up early to take some shots of the sunrise. Unfortunately, the sun was covered by many clouds but having a walk on the outdoor deck is great for working off all the calories consumed on ship!

Rice Balls at Jamie’s Italian

The Food: Speaking of working out! You will need the gym and the track after all the great food on ship! Quantum of the Seas has 18 restaurants and 14 bars to choose from. You have everything from Jamie’s Italian, based on the recipes of Jamie Oliver’s famous cookbook to Devningly Decadence from Chef Devin, where all food items are 500 calories or less. 

Indoor Pool at Quantum of the Seas

The Pools: Rainy day? No problem! There are two pools on the top deck of the Quantum of the Seas: one indoor and one outdoor. Working out? The gym is located right next to the indoor pool.  Not working out? There’s a bar right next to the pool!

Surf Simulator on Quantum of the Seas

Creativity: Where can you surf, simulate skydiving, and hop on a capsule 300ft above sea level? I find it great for families to have a range of fun and different activities to do together. I had the opportunity to hop on the Quantum of the Seas North Star, which gave me an amazing view of the ship from 300ft above sea level. Another popular feature of the ship are the robotic bartenders. Although it was a fun novelty to see, I loved the interaction I had with the awesome international staff on board. With bartenders from Chile to India, there’s lots of room for great conversation at the real bar! 

Robot Bartender at Quantum of the Seas

Technology: One of key things that makes Quantum of the Seas so different. It all started at check-in where the agents were waiting for guests with iPads to check them in. There were no lines and the process was quick and smooth. Along with this technology, guests can book their dining experiences, shore excursions or spa experiences while on board. The ship prides itself in having high-speed wi-fi for all guests, making it easier than ever to share your experience with your loved ones back at home (and in my case Instagram my whole experience!).

The Spa at Quantum of the Seas

Spa: When on holiday, one must pamper myself! I went for the slimming spa treatment at the Quantum of the Seas Spa (yes, I thought a massage will make all the good food go away).  I did lose a few inches from the treatment though! I also learned that when the ship is docked, you can get up to 40% off spa treatments. You may want to book a massage versus a shore excursion! 

Interior of Quantum of the Seas

Design: I love modern design and was taken by all the details, small and large of Quantum of the Seas. As we walked to our cabin, we were welcomed by small love themed prints along the hallways. All the elevators have unique art on its walls and you are encountered with unique sculptures along the hallways and even on the deck of the ship (see Felicia!). 

Wonderland Restaurant

Verdict: I believe Royal Caribbean achieved its goal when they made the ship into a vacation experience versus a cruise experience. For those who we encountered that are cruise vets, they were enchanted by the experience. For me, I am still a fan of the independence that land-based vacations offer but can appreciate the Quantum of the Seas cruise. For those who love cruises, this is a must do experience.
*I experienced the Quantum of the Seas as a part of a press trip. As always, all opinions are mine. 
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