Allure of the Seas

On October 9, 2011 we boarded the Allure of the Seas and sailed on her 43rd voyage. This is the largest cruise ship in the industry at 225,282 tons, and it definitely felt like it! You’ll just gaze in amazement at the enormous size of this ship, a real beauty from ashore and onboard as well. The ships public areas are designed in neighborhood themes that provide guests with many interesting venues as they experience their cruise. I’ll highlight some of the tips and tricks we learned onboard the Allure, in hopes that others can take these into account and make the most of their time spent onboard this amazing ship.  

Make a note to avoid the crowds in the Windjammer buffet, and you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of dining options by visiting the several neighborhoods throughout your cruise. Johnny Rockets on the Boardwalk has a table service breakfast and there’s No Cover Charge for breakfast. On your way in or out, stop at the Boardwalk Donut Shop for a fresh donut too. For an afternoon bite try the Boardwalk DogHouse featuring hot dogs, bratwurst and other sausages with all the toppings. Central Park’s Park Cafe’ features made to order salads, sandwiches, and an assortment of deserts or visit the Royal Promenade and Sorrento’s Pizzeria or Cafe’ Promenade for other satisfying alternatives. For healthier choices, checkout the variety of wraps and salads at the Vitality Cafe’ and the Solarium Bistro. And these are just the alternatives to the Windjammer buffet for breakfast and lunch options! Are you getting the picture? You have many, many choices so – be sure to explore the ship to enjoy more snack, specialty and dining options.

Oh, there are plenty of pools to choose from and for the sports enthusiasts this ship has plenty of other onboard activities too. On this ship you can be challenged on the RockClimbing walls, boogie board on the FlowRiders, harness-up and Zipline over the Boardwalk, play a round of Miniature Golf, shoot some hoops in a game of basketball, try a game of table tennis or lace-up the skates and go ice-skating! There are so many choices for things to do onboard this ship; your sea days will be as busy and full as you choose to make them.

Going to the shows takes some planning, but you don’t want to miss the entertainment featured on this ship! The talent and variety of entertainment and performances from the Comedy Club, to the AquaTheatre, and the Ice Show, to the musical Chicago, the Beatles Review and BluePlanet are all, not to be missed! Make your reservations and plan to arrive 30-45 minutes before the show begins. Those that do not have reservations are admitted 10-minutes before show time.  

Guest Kiosks are available along the Royal Promenade and can be used to view, print or email your guest folios/bill and guest calendars that list spa appointments, alternative dining reservations and your entertainment reservations. These kiosks were very busy the last day onboard as guests can access their airline reservation and do their online check in and print their boarding passes as well.

Incase you're wondering how the size of the AllureOS compares - here's 110,000 tons vs. 225,282 tons.