Set sail on one of the most incredible cruise ships ever built — Symphony of the Seas. From world-class dining and Broadway-caliber shows to high-energy activities and serene spaces, this floating city offers something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the ship’s top highlights, insider tips, and can’t-miss experiences.
Ship Overview & Quick Stats
When Royal Caribbean launched Symphony of the Seas in 2018, it instantly claimed the title of the world’s largest cruise ship — and it still ranks near the top today. Measuring 1,188 feet long and carrying more than 6,600 guests, it’s a true floating resort that never feels overcrowded thanks to its clever “neighborhood” design.
Quick Stats:
- Class: Oasis-class
- Guest Capacity: ~6,680
- Crew: ~2,200
- Length: 1,188 feet
- Neighborhoods: 7 unique themed areas
- Godmother: Symphony’s godmother is Alexa (yes, Amazon’s virtual assistant!)
Fun Fact:
The ship has more art than many small museums — over 13,000 pieces onboard!
Neighborhoods at Sea
One of the things that makes Symphony of the Seas special is its “neighborhood” layout — each section feels like its own mini vacation.
- Central Park: A tranquil, open-air garden lined with specialty restaurants like 150 Central Park and Giovanni’s Table. Strolling here at night with soft jazz playing is pure magic.
- Boardwalk: Carnival vibes with a carousel, the AquaTheater, Playmakers Sports Bar, and Johnny Rockets.
- Royal Promenade: The heart of the ship — think shopping, parades, bars, and live music under glittering lights.
- Pool & Sports Zone: Home to the FlowRiders, mini golf, and the famous Ultimate Abyss dry slide.
- Entertainment Place: Catch big-name shows, comedy, and live music.
- Youth Zone: For the kids — from toddlers to teens, Adventure Ocean has it covered.
- Vitality Spa & Fitness Center: For those who prefer massages over margaritas.
Pro Tip:
The Central Park neighborhood is a hidden gem at night. Grab a drink from the Trellis Bar, find a bench under the twinkle lights, and enjoy one of the most peaceful spots at sea.
Dining Highlights: Main Dining Room, Chops, Hooked & More
If there’s one thing Symphony of the Seas does right, it’s food. Whether you’re craving gourmet steak, fresh seafood, or grab-and-go tacos, this ship has it all.
- Main Dining Room: A grand three-story space serving rotating menus with global favorites. Perfect for sit-down dinners and formal nights.
- Chops Grille: A steakhouse favorite — juicy cuts, elegant atmosphere, and perfectly cooked filets. It’s worth every penny of the upcharge.
- Hooked Seafood: New England-style seafood with ocean views. Don’t miss the lobster roll — it’s one of the best at sea.
- Windjammer Marketplace: The go-to buffet with tons of variety and surprisingly good quality. Breakfast here is unbeatable for early risers.
- Solarium Bistro: Healthy options and a relaxed adults-only vibe — ideal for lighter meals.
- El Loco Fresh: Quick, casual Mexican by the pool. Grab tacos, quesadillas, or nachos between sun sessions.
Pro Tip:
Skip the lunch rush by hitting El Loco Fresh around 2:00 p.m. You’ll have more space — and hotter tacos.
Fun Fact:
Over 1,200 pounds of lobster tail are served every cruise on Symphony of the Seas.
Entertainment That Rivals Broadway
Royal Caribbean doesn’t hold back when it comes to entertainment, and Symphony of the Seas takes it to a whole new level. The ship features multiple full-scale production shows — and they’re included in your fare.
- Hiro (AquaTheater): A mind-bending mix of diving, acrobatics, and stunts performed over a 30-foot pool at the ship’s stern.
- 1977 (Ice Show): A heist-themed story told through figure skating and special effects.
- Flight: A high-energy musical about the history (and future) of aviation, complete with a full-size airplane on stage.
- Love & Marriage Game Show: Always hilarious — and unpredictable. Perfect after-dinner entertainment.
- Comedy Club & Live Music Venues: Smaller acts that keep the energy going late into the night.
Pro Tip:
Reserve your show times early in the Royal Caribbean app — especially for Hiro and Flight. They fill up fast.
Fun Fact:
The AquaTheater’s pool is over 17 feet deep — the deepest at sea.
The Bionic Bar & Other Fun Spots
After dark, Symphony of the Seas truly comes alive. The nightlife scene is diverse — from robotic bartenders to high-energy lounges and casinos buzzing late into the night.
- The Bionic Bar: Watch robots shake, stir, and serve your cocktail order. It’s futuristic and fun to film for social media.
- Casino Royale: A massive space filled with slot machines, poker, roulette, and table games. It’s easy to lose track of time here (and maybe win a little too). You might even earn enough points for a “free” cruise.
- Pool Bar & Lime & Coconut: The perfect daytime hangouts with island tunes and frozen drinks.
- Boleros: Latin beats, mojitos, and salsa dancing — pure Caribbean vibes.
- Rising Tide Bar: A slow-moving bar that travels between decks 5 and 8. Don’t miss at least one “ride.”
Pro Tip:
If you love people-watching, grab a seat at the Pool Bar on a sea day. You’ll see everything from belly flop contestants to sun-soaked naps in progress.
Fun Fact:
The Bionic Bar can mix up to two drinks every minute — that’s faster than most bartenders on land!
Family Fun & Activities
Symphony of the Seas is built for families and thrill-seekers alike.
- Ultimate Abyss: The tallest slide at sea, plunging 10 decks down.
- FlowRider Surf Simulators: Try surfing without the saltwater sting.
- Zip Line: Soar nine decks above the Boardwalk — it’s short but thrilling.
- Splashaway Bay: A water park for the little ones.
- Mini Golf & Sports Court: Great for family tournaments.
- Arcade: Packed with classic and modern games.
Pro Tip:
The Ultimate Abyss looks scarier than it is — it’s a dry slide, not a water one, so even kids can handle it.
Pro Tips for Cruisers
Book Entertainment Early: The big shows fill up quickly. Use the Royal app before you sail.
Make Specialty Dining Reservations Early: Especially Chops and Hooked — they sell out fast on sea days.
Try Lunch at Specialty Restaurants: Same amazing food, often at lower prices.
Explore the Ship Early: Embarkation day is the best time to grab those empty photo spots before everyone else boards.
Casino Players: Ask about Royal Caribbean’s Club Royale for free drinks while you play.
Fun Facts about Symphony of the Seas
- There are over 2,700 staterooms onboard.
- The ship produces 500,000 gallons of fresh water daily.
- 3,000 light fixtures illuminate the Royal Promenade.
- It takes 8,000 pounds of ice every day to keep drinks cold.
- The crew represents over 70 nationalities working together.
Final Thoughts: Why It’s Worth Sailing
Symphony of the Seas is more than just a cruise — it’s a floating destination packed with adventure, luxury, and endless surprises. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the Pool Bar, dining on fresh seafood at Hooked, or cheering on divers at Hiro, every moment feels larger than life.
If you’re looking for a vacation where boredom doesn’t exist, this ship delivers — in style, flavor, and unforgettable fun.
Kozmo Photos 