Our Experience on Ovation of the Seas: What We Loved About This Royal Caribbean Ship
From skydiving at sea to sipping mojitos under the setting sun, our time aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas was nothing short of incredible. This Quantum Class ship checks every box with its blend of innovation, comfort, adventure, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after you return home.
We had the exciting opportunity to sail during the ship’s inaugural voyage from Los Angeles, marking its first-ever deployment on the West Coast. For a limited two-month season, Ovation of the Seas is offering unforgettable cruises to Mexico – and we were there to experience it all firsthand.
As we put it, “Ovation of the Seas is truly a next-level ship. What really sets it apart is how it makes you feel like you're part of something special.”
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or getting ready for your very first sailing, this is your complete look at what it’s like to experience Ovation of the Seas. We’re sharing our favorite highlights, helpful tips, and everything you need to know about life aboard this spectacular floating resort.
Ovation of the Seas: A Ship Packed With Possibilities
Ovation of the Seas isn’t just a cruise ship. It’s a floating city filled with thrill rides, world-class dining, and nonstop views that make every turn feel like a postcard moment. Since its debut in 2016, this Quantum Class beauty has been wowing guests with its size and surprises. It’s over 1,100 feet long and features 16 decks, but everything is laid out so thoughtfully that exploring it just feels like part of the adventure.
What can you expect on board? How about RipCord by iFLY, where you can experience skydiving without leaving the ship. Or North Star, a glass capsule that lifts you 300 feet above sea level for some of the most incredible views imaginable. Then there’s Two70, an entertainment venue where live performances, robotics, and digital projections come together in a show you’ll be talking about long after the curtain falls.
And the best part? There is always something fun to discover. One moment you might be lounging with a cocktail in the peaceful Solarium, and the next you’re spinning bumper cars in SeaPlex or settling in for a spectacular show at the Royal Theater. It’s the kind of ship where every day brings a new highlight.
Launch History and Key Milestones
Ovation of the Seas was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, and delivered to Royal Caribbean in April 2016. Instead of debuting in the Caribbean, the ship was deployed to China for its inaugural season, a first for a Quantum Class ship at this scale. It has since repositioned multiple times to serve Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the South Pacific, and the U.S. West Coast.
Key milestones include:
- Keel laid (November 2014): Construction began at Meyer Werft.
- Float-out (February 2016): The hull was flooded out of the building dock.
- Delivery (April 2016): Royal Caribbean took delivery and sailed the ship from Bremerhaven.
- Maiden voyage (April 2016): A 52-night global sailing from Southampton to Tianjin, China, repositioning the ship to its first homeport in Asia.
- Naming ceremony (June 2016): Named in Tianjin, China, by actress Fan Bingbing as godmother.
- First Alaska season (2019): Ovation joined the Alaska summer lineup from Seattle, bringing Quantum Class amenities to the Inside Passage.
- Australia summer seasons: Ovation has been a regular in Sydney and Brisbane for Australian summer, serving New Zealand, South Pacific, and Tasmania itineraries.
Today, Ovation alternates between Alaska summers out of Seattle and Australian summers out of Sydney, with occasional repositioning voyages, Asia seasons, and short West Coast sailings in between.
Ship Size, Capacity, and Deck Plan Highlights
Ovation of the Seas sits in a comfortable spot in Royal Caribbean’s fleet: big enough for signature attractions and a full Broadway theater, small enough to reach ports the mega-ships cannot. The design prioritizes flow and natural light, with a tall glass-walled stern at Two70 that often becomes the most photographed space on the ship.
Ship specifications:
- Gross tonnage: ~168,666 GT
- Length: 1,141 feet (347 meters)
- Beam: 136 feet (41.4 meters)
- Guest capacity: ~4,180 double occupancy, up to ~4,905 maximum
- Crew: ~1,500
- Decks: 18 total, 16 accessible to guests
- Cabins: ~2,090 across all categories
- Builder: Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)
- Class: Quantum Class, third ship in the series
Key areas and activity zones include:
- Royal Esplanade: Indoor promenade with boutiques, bars, and Café Promenade for quick bites.
- Pool Deck: Main outdoor deck with the central pool, H2O Zone kids’ splash area, and multiple whirlpools.
- Solarium: Adults-only, glass-enclosed retreat with an indoor pool and hot tubs; a go-to space on Alaska and shoulder-season sailings.
- SeaPlex: The largest indoor activity space at sea when the ship launched, with bumper cars, basketball, a circus school, and roller skating.
- Two70: A three-deck aft venue with floor-to-ceiling windows by day and Vistarama and RoboScreens performances by night.
- Vitality Spa and Fitness Center: Thermal suite, treatment rooms, and a full gym with ocean views.
- North Star: Jewel-shaped glass observation capsule that arcs out over the side and climbs 300 feet above sea level.
- Top deck thrills: RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator and the FlowRider surf simulator.
Despite its size, Ovation is easy to navigate. The Royal app, clear wayfinding, and a central set of elevators help spread crowds, and quieter retreats (the library, Music Hall during the day, the aft Solarium windows) are never far away.
Cabins Designed for Every Type of Traveler
We stayed in a Balcony cabin on Deck 11, which turned out to be the perfect location. It was close to the elevators but still quiet and tucked away. The ocean views were spectacular, and the bed was honestly one of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in on a ship.
Ovation of the Seas offers a variety of accommodations to match every type of traveler. Interior rooms come with clever features like Virtual Balconies that project real-time ocean views. Ocean View cabins provide large windows and plenty of natural light. Balcony rooms offer your own private front-row seat to the sea. For an elevated escape, the Suite Class includes spacious layouts, exclusive dining at Coastal Kitchen, and family-friendly extras such as the Ultimate Family Suite with an in-room slide.
No matter which option you choose, the cabins are thoughtfully designed to be both stylish and comfortable. They are the perfect place to relax and recharge between adventures.
Flavors to Savor: Dining Venues You’ll Want to Reserve Twice
Dining on Ovation of the Seas is an experience all its own, offering a global array of flavors and settings that turn every meal into a memorable occasion. With more than a dozen restaurants and culinary options onboard, there’s something to satisfy every craving, from upscale date nights to laid-back bites with ocean views.
Our personal standouts included:
• Jamie’s Italian for the warm bread, fresh pasta, and perfectly chilled wine.
• Wonderland, which felt like stepping into another dimension. It was creative, surprising, and yes, delicious.
• Windjammer Marketplace for breakfast, where the scent of croissants, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit made every morning feel like a feast.
And let’s not forget our room service breakfast on the balcony. Watching the waves while sipping coffee is now our new standard for starting the day.
“The dining on Ovation was a highlight of the trip. Whether we were enjoying a fine dining experience in an upscale restaurant or grabbing a quick bite with an ocean view, every meal felt like its own little celebration.”
Beyond the Deck Chair: Thrills, Shows, and Relaxation at Sea
Entertainment and leisure aboard Ovation of the Seas go far beyond the traditional cruise experience. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, soaking in world-class shows, or unwinding in a peaceful spa sanctuary, this ship delivers a seamless mix of high-energy fun and total relaxation.
Want to relax? Head to the adults only Solarium or unwind in the Vitality Spa with a massage. Prefer to turn up the energy? Book a time for RipCord by iFLY. We did it on the second sea day and it was perfect timing with no lines. Or hit SeaPlex for bumper cars and more.
“The shows onboard were seriously amazing. There was something for everyone, from Broadway style shows to high energy acts that had us hooked. Every night brought something new and exciting.”
One evening, as we sailed away from Ensenada, the pool deck transformed into a tropical party. A live DJ played upbeat tunes while the sun dipped low, casting golden light across the ocean. We sipped frozen mojitos and let the moment sink in. It was pure cruise magic.
Pools, Aquatics, and Wellness Amenities
Ovation is built for sun-soaked sea days and high-energy afternoons, with quiet spaces tucked in for when you are ready to slow down. The ship does not have a full water park the way the Icon Class does, but it makes up for it with signature thrill attractions that are not available anywhere else.
Pools and Whirlpools
- Main Pool: The centerpiece of the outdoor pool deck on Deck 14, flanked by cantilevered whirlpools that extend over the side of the ship.
- Solarium Pool: An indoor/outdoor adults-only glass-enclosed retreat at the front of the ship, with a pool, whirlpools, and padded loungers. Especially popular on Alaska and New Zealand sailings.
- H2O Zone: The kids’ splash deck with fountains, sprayers, and shallow water play for younger guests.
- Indoor and Outdoor Whirlpools: Several hot tubs spread across the Solarium and main pool deck, some cantilevered to offer views straight down to the water.
Signature Thrill Attractions
Instead of a multi-slide water park, Ovation concentrates its adrenaline into a short list of standout features:
- North Star: A jewel-shaped glass capsule that rises more than 300 feet above sea level for 360-Degree views of the ship, the ocean, and (depending on the itinerary) glaciers, harbors, or skylines. Included with your cruise fare for a short scenic ride; additional fee may apply for extended experiences on select sailings.
- RipCord by iFLY: A vertical wind tunnel that lets guests experience a one-minute skydive over the ocean. Class includes gear, a safety briefing, and hands-on time with an instructor.
- FlowRider: A surf simulator on the top deck where guests can try boogie boarding and stand-up surfing with instruction. Open most days, weather permitting.
- SeaPlex: Indoor sports and activity complex with bumper cars, basketball, volleyball, circus school (including trapeze classes on select sailings), and roller skating.
- Rock Climbing Wall: A signature Royal Caribbean climbing wall on the upper decks, open to most ages with crew supervision.
Spa, Fitness, and Wellness
The Vitality Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments, acupuncture, and salon services. A thermal suite with heated loungers, saunas, and steam rooms is available as a paid add-on and is one of the best uses of sea day time on the ship.
The fitness center spans cardio equipment, free weights, and functional training zones, with complimentary group classes (stretching, morning walks) and paid specialty options (spin, yoga, personal training). An outdoor jogging track runs laps around the ship with ocean views on both sides.
Adults-Only and Quiet Spaces
Ovation’s Solarium is the ship’s primary adults-only retreat and one of the nicest in the fleet, especially in cooler climates. Suite guests have additional access to private spaces via Coastal Kitchen and the suite sun deck. For the quietest escape, the spa thermal suite remains the most consistent option.
Epic Itineraries: Where Ovation of the Seas Can Take You
Ovation of the Seas is celebrated for its incredible itineraries that showcase some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. This ship is designed to bring you closer to the wonders of nature and the richness of global cultures, all while offering a luxurious and adventure-filled experience at sea.
Depending on the season, Ovation of the Seas sails to some truly unforgettable destinations:
• Alaska’s Inside Passage with glacier sightings, whale watching, and charming frontier towns like Juneau and Skagway.
• Mexico, where you can relax on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas or stroll through the vibrant streets of Ensenada.
• Asia, with stops in Singapore, Penang, and Phuket, offering a dynamic mix of culture, cuisine, and coastline.
Each itinerary offers a mix of shore excursions, relaxation, and jaw-dropping views – and Ovation ensures the journey is just as unforgettable as the destination.
Day in the Life: A Perfect Sea Day Itinerary
8:00 a.m. – Enjoyed breakfast on the balcony with the sound of the ocean as our soundtrack.
10:00 a.m. – Grabbed coffee and took a top-deck stroll under clear blue skies.
12:30 p.m. – Lunch at Jamie’s Italian, where everything from the ambiance to the truffle fries hit the spot.
3:00 p.m. – Poolside vibes, frozen cocktails in hand, and some prime people-watching.
5:00 p.m. – A ride on the North Star for sweeping views of the Mexican coastline.
7:30 p.m. – Dinner at Wonderland, where food turned into art and magic.
9:00 p.m. – Capped off the night with a show that felt straight out of Broadway.
What Does Ovation of the Seas Cost? A Quick Reality Check
Pricing swings widely depending on region, season, cabin type, and how close you are to sail date. A few patterns hold for most Quantum Class sailings.
Region is the biggest variable. Alaska from Seattle and Australia/New Zealand from Sydney tend to command premium pricing in peak months. Asia itineraries and repositioning cruises often offer the strongest value per day.
Cabin choice drives the biggest swing within a sailing. Interior cabins with Virtual Balconies are often the best value on Ovation. Balcony cabins step up quickly, and Grand, Owner’s, and Loft Suites sit in a different price tier altogether.
Budget beyond the base fare. Most travelers end up adding a beverage package, WiFi, specialty dining, gratuities, shore excursions, and pre-cruise hotels or flights. For Alaska and Australia departures, airfare is often the largest line item after the cabin itself.
A useful order of decisions: lock in your region and dates first, since those drive the price floor. Then choose your cabin for comfort and light. Finally, layer on the add-ons that actually matter to your trip, rather than everything at once.
Should You Sail Ovation of the Seas? A Quick Decision Guide
Not sure whether Ovation is the right fit? Start with a quick gut check.
Book it if:
- You want a ship with genuine signature attractions, like North Star, RipCord by iFLY, and a surf simulator, that you will actually use.
- You are sailing a destination-heavy itinerary (Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, Asia) and want the onboard experience to match the caliber of the ports.
- You are traveling with a mixed group of ages where everyone needs their own thing to do, from kids to teens to adults.
- You appreciate a mix of high-production entertainment, including a Broadway-style theater and the Two70 multimedia venue.
Maybe skip it if:
- You prefer the neighborhood layout and record-setting water parks of the newer Icon Class ships.
- You want a classic, small-ship atmosphere with quieter sea days and fewer activities to schedule around.
- Your priority is the lowest possible fare and you are flexible on ship; older Royal Caribbean ships on similar itineraries often cost less.
- You are looking for large-scale onboard waterslides, which Ovation does not have.
As for length, seven nights is the sweet spot for most Ovation itineraries. Shorter Pacific Coast sailings (three to five nights) work well for a quick getaway, while longer Alaska, transpacific, and Australia-based voyages give the ship room to show off across more varied weather and ports.
Why Ovation of the Seas Is a Top Pick for All Types of Cruisers
Ovation of the Seas offers a little something for everyone. Families appreciate the kid-friendly activities at SeaPlex, youth programs in Adventure Ocean, and flexible dining options. Couples enjoy romantic dinners, spa days, and peaceful retreats like the adults-only Solarium. For adventure-seekers, the ship delivers with skydiving, surfing, and destination excursions that turn every day into a new thrill.
“My time onboard Ovation of the Seas was absolutely incredible. From setting sail in LA to exploring the lively port of Ensenada, every moment felt like a fresh, exciting experience. It’s hard not to be in awe of everything this ship has to offer.”
Whether you want high energy, total relaxation, or something in between, this ship makes it easy to find your perfect cruise rhythm.
Ready to plan your own unforgettable escape aboard Ovation of the Seas? Connect with an Avoya Travel Vacation Planner today and let’s turn your dream cruise into reality.
Experience the thrill, luxury, and innovation of Ovation of the Seas – a ship designed to impress from bow to stern. Let an Avoya Travel Independent Travel Advisor help you discover the best itineraries, exclusive deals, and onboard experiences that make every moment unforgettable. Ready to plan your perfect cruise? Your adventure begins with Avoya!
How to Book and Get the Best Deals on Ovation of the Seas
Ovation sells strongly in both its Alaska and Australia seasons, with inventory tightening well before sail date for peak weeks. Booking with an experienced agency like Avoya Travel can simplify the process and improve overall value without costing extra.
Avoya Travel pairs you with an experienced travel advisor who knows Royal Caribbean, Quantum Class ships, and the quirks of each region Ovation sails. Instead of sifting through dozens of sailings, you get guidance on the best dates, cabin locations, and itineraries based on how you actually travel. In many cases, that expertise surfaces better pricing or added perks than a direct booking.
A second advantage is access to promotions that are not always public. Avoya Travel frequently attaches group space, onboard credit, prepaid gratuities, or dining perks to specific Ovation sailings. On a ship where base fares can hold firm early, those extras can meaningfully improve the overall value of your trip.
Timing matters too. Travel advisors can flag shoulder-season Alaska and Australia dates where the ship is less crowded and the pricing is friendlier, and they can help you take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s price-protection programs if fares drop after you book. You do not have to monitor prices yourself.
Finally, peace of mind. From deposit and payment-deadline reminders to cabin selection, dining reservations, and special requests, Avoya Travel manages the details while you focus on the trip itself.
Ready to plan your own unforgettable escape aboard Ovation of the Seas? Connect with an Avoya Travel Vacation Planner today and let’s turn your dream cruise into reality.
