Allure in Port Everglades
Allure of the Seas sailed her maiden voyage on December 1, 2010. She was supposed to be the same size as sister ship Oasis of the Seas. But so vast are these ocean-going cities, that even though Allure was built on the same superstructure, she emerged five centimeters longer and 70,000 tons heavier. She is currently the largest cruise ship in the world.
All the best features of Oasis are present on Allure — the open-air park, Aqua Theater, and Loft Suites. But Allure has some exciting new features all her own, including the first Starbucks on a mainstream cruise ship. And the Royal Caribbean Dreamworks partnership is even more in evidence on Allure, much to the delight young passengers.
The seven-night Caribbean itinerary gives Oasis past passengers another option in the Caribbean. And travelers aboard Allure can enjoy the Broadway-style production of Chicago in the 1,400-seat Amber Theater, instead of Hairspray, which plays on Oasis.
Dining aboard Allure of the Seas.
In addition to the most popular restaurants on Oasis — Johnny Rocket’s, Chops Grille, and Giovanni’s — Allure offers passengers three new venues: the aforementioned Starbucks, a hot dog place called the Boardwalk Dog House, and a Mexican restaurant named Rita’s Cantina. There’s even a tapas bar and a churrascaria,
Accommodation aboard Allure of the Seas.
Staterooms on Allure feature enhanced connectivity that will be appreciated by tech-dependent travelers. Each cabin has a dock for charging or playing an iPad, iPod, or iPhone, and grounded outlets are now available. The outlets have been relocated so they’re more convenient. And Internet access is available on TVs in cabins and via WiFi throughout the ship.
Facilities aboard Allure of the Seas.
Royal Caribbean is going toe to toe with Disney in the battle to attract families with young children. Dreamworks characters abound and a colorful parade with nearly 100 performers — including Kung Fu Panda, and Shrek — provide memorable entertainment for kids and their parents.
St. Maarten
Disney pioneered 3D theaters with first-run movies, and Allure can show the latest 3D hits from Dreamworks in the Amber Theater. Currently playing is Megamind with Shrek Forever After and How to Train Your Dragon in the queue. And shows in the Studio B ice rink and Aqua Theater feature Dreamworks Animation characters.
As a convenience to passengers, Allure will also offer kiosks where cruisers can print out boarding passes, reconfirm on-board services and reservations, or review their shipboard account. And shoppers can indulge themselves at the Coach and Guess boutiques.
Read about sister ship Oasis of the Seas. Or read about the other top 10 largest cruise ships.
Allure in Port Everglades Image Flickr: Josh Friedman Luxury Travel
St. Maarten Image Flickr: Rennett Stowe