I sailed on the world's largest cruise ship Royal Caribbean's 9,300-person Wonder of the Seas — and it's my new favorite
Brittany Chang
![I sailed on the world's largest cruise ship — Royal Caribbean's 9,300-person Wonder of the Seas — and it's my new favorite](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticbiassets.in%2Fthumb%2Fmsid-96833530%2Cwidth-700%2Cheight-525%2Cimgsize-382278%2Fi-sailed-on-the-worldaposs-largest-cruise-ship-ampmdash-royal-caribbeanaposs-9300-person-wonder-of-the-seas-ampmdash-and-itaposs-my-new-favorite.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Brittany Chang/Insider
- Royal Caribbean invited me to sail on its new Wonder of the Seas for two nights in early December.
- The world's largest cruise ship had unique amenities I had never seen on a ship before.
I sailed on Royal Caribbean International's new world's largest cruise ship, the Wonder of the Seas.
![I sailed on Royal Caribbean International](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834134,width-700,height-525,imgsize-362264/i-sailed-on-royal-caribbean-internationalaposs-new-worldaposs-largest-cruise-ship-the-wonder-of-the-seas-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And to my surprise, the behemoth vessel made me forget that I don't like cruises.
![And to my surprise, the behemoth vessel made me forget that I don](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834131,width-700,height-525,imgsize-278812/and-to-my-surprise-the-behemoth-vessel-made-me-forget-that-i-donapost-like-cruises-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
I've been on several cruises across several brands for work.
![I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834126,width-700,height-525,imgsize-206818/iaposve-been-on-several-cruises-across-several-brands-for-work-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And so far, sailing on this new floating city has been my favorite trip.
![And so far, sailing on this new floating city has been my favorite trip.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834124,width-700,height-525,imgsize-256484/and-so-far-sailing-on-this-new-floating-city-has-been-my-favorite-trip-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Amenities like its eight neighborhoods, three water slides, and expansive pool deck provided more entertainment than I could have consumed during my two nights at sea.
![Amenities like its eight neighborhoods, three water slides, and expansive pool deck provided more entertainment than I could have consumed during my two nights at sea.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834118,width-700,height-525,imgsize-484466/amenities-like-its-eight-neighborhoods-three-water-slides-and-expansive-pool-deck-provided-more-entertainment-than-i-could-have-consumed-during-my-two-nights-at-sea-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And moving forward, it'll be one of the only cruise vessels I'll recommend when people ask me for suggestions.
![And moving forward, it](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834113,width-700,height-525,imgsize-324732/and-moving-forward-itaposll-be-one-of-the-only-cruise-vessels-iaposll-recommend-when-people-ask-me-for-suggestions-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Royal Caribbean International invited me to sail on its newest mega Oasis Class cruise ship in early December during a non-revenue sailing for media and travel agents.
![Royal Caribbean International invited me to sail on its newest mega Oasis Class cruise ship in early December during a non-revenue sailing for media and travel agents.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834107,width-700,height-525,imgsize-518244/royal-caribbean-international-invited-me-to-sail-on-its-newest-mega-oasis-class-cruise-ship-in-early-december-during-a-non-revenue-sailing-for-media-and-travel-agents-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Before I dive into the positives, let's start with the most glaring negative: my $1,400 balcony stateroom.
![Before I dive into the positives, let](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834100,width-700,height-525,imgsize-375726/before-i-dive-into-the-positives-letaposs-start-with-the-most-glaring-negative-my-1400-balcony-stateroom-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: Insider
My spacious hotel room at sea had grand views of the ocean and the most storage I've ever seen in a stateroom.
![My spacious hotel room at sea had grand views of the ocean and the most storage I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834095,width-700,height-525,imgsize-181446/my-spacious-hotel-room-at-sea-had-grand-views-of-the-ocean-and-the-most-storage-iaposve-ever-seen-in-a-stateroom-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But its bland decor, poorly designed sink basin that constantly splashed water onto the countertop …
![But its bland decor, poorly designed sink basin that constantly splashed water onto the countertop …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834092,width-700,height-525,imgsize-138654/but-its-bland-decor-poorly-designed-sink-basin-that-constantly-splashed-water-onto-the-countertop-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… and lack of toiletries — specifically conditioner and a separate body wash and shampoo — were disappointing, especially on such a wildly hyped cruise ship.
![… and lack of toiletries — specifically conditioner and a separate body wash and shampoo — were disappointing, especially on such a wildly hyped cruise ship.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834087,width-700,height-525,imgsize-481706/x2026-and-lack-of-toiletries-x2014-specifically-conditioner-and-a-separate-body-wash-and-shampoo-x2014-were-disappointing-especially-on-such-a-wildly-hyped-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: Insider
Despite its hefty price tag, the stateroom didn't feel luxurious enough to compel me to spend more time in my home at sea.
![Despite its hefty price tag, the stateroom didn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834085,width-700,height-525,imgsize-116366/despite-its-hefty-price-tag-the-stateroom-didnapost-feel-luxurious-enough-to-compel-me-to-spend-more-time-in-my-home-at-sea-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It provided the essentials and nothing more.
![It provided the essentials and nothing more.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834078,width-700,height-525,imgsize-373484/it-provided-the-essentials-and-nothing-more-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But maybe a stateroom as boring as this is justifiable aboard a ship like the Wonder of the Seas.
![But maybe a stateroom as boring as this is justifiable aboard a ship like the Wonder of the Seas.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834072,width-700,height-525,imgsize-139798/but-maybe-a-stateroom-as-boring-as-this-is-justifiable-aboard-a-ship-like-the-wonder-of-the-seas-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: Insider
Why spend excess time in your stateroom when you have a massive vessel with eight neighborhoods to explore?
![Why spend excess time in your stateroom when you have a massive vessel with eight neighborhoods to explore?](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834067,width-700,height-525,imgsize-247572/why-spend-excess-time-in-your-stateroom-when-you-have-a-massive-vessel-with-eight-neighborhoods-to-explore.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Ultimately, two nights aboard the ship wasn't enough time to experience all it had to offer even with a packed itinerary.
![Ultimately, two nights aboard the ship wasn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834058,width-700,height-525,imgsize-454984/ultimately-two-nights-aboard-the-ship-wasnapost-enough-time-to-experience-all-it-had-to-offer-even-with-a-packed-itinerary-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Even though I didn't get to drink at every bar, dine at every restaurant, and lounge in every hot tub, the floating resort was still the most fun I've ever had on a cruise ship.
![Even though I didn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834049,width-700,height-525,imgsize-282834/even-though-i-didnapost-get-to-drink-at-every-bar-dine-at-every-restaurant-and-lounge-in-every-hot-tub-the-floating-resort-was-still-the-most-fun-iaposve-ever-had-on-a-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
So I'll just review what I was able to see and do during my two short nights aboard the ship.
![So I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834043,width-700,height-525,imgsize-419160/so-iaposll-just-review-what-i-was-able-to-see-and-do-during-my-two-short-nights-aboard-the-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The Wonder of the Seas has eight neighborhoods all with their own amenities, services, design, and activities.
![The Wonder of the Seas has eight neighborhoods all with their own amenities, services, design, and activities.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834035,width-700,height-525,imgsize-398258/the-wonder-of-the-seas-has-eight-neighborhoods-all-with-their-own-amenities-services-design-and-activities-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
One is exclusive to guests staying in suites, which I can't speak to.
![One is exclusive to guests staying in suites, which I can](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834028,width-700,height-525,imgsize-411184/one-is-exclusive-to-guests-staying-in-suites-which-i-canapost-speak-to-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But neighborhoods like Central Park and Boardwalk were the big standouts.
![But neighborhoods like Central Park and Boardwalk were the big standouts.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834024,width-700,height-525,imgsize-406428/but-neighborhoods-like-central-park-and-boardwalk-were-the-big-standouts-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Both looked nothing like a typical cruise ship.
![Both looked nothing like a typical cruise ship.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834018,width-700,height-525,imgsize-296176/both-looked-nothing-like-a-typical-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Instead, Central Park resembled an outdoor mall filled with plants, shops, restaurants, and live music …
![Instead, Central Park resembled an outdoor mall filled with plants, shops, restaurants, and live music …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834013,width-700,height-525,imgsize-357968/instead-central-park-resembled-an-outdoor-mall-filled-with-plants-shops-restaurants-and-live-music-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… while the Boardwalk looked exactly like what you'd expect.
![… while the Boardwalk looked exactly like what you](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834009,width-700,height-525,imgsize-360658/x2026-while-the-boardwalk-looked-exactly-like-what-youaposd-expect-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Central Park had an energetic but quiet hum, creating a peaceful open-aired neighborhood.
![Central Park had an energetic but quiet hum, creating a peaceful open-aired neighborhood.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834005,width-700,height-525,imgsize-342552/central-park-had-an-energetic-but-quiet-hum-creating-a-peaceful-open-aired-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was one of the most relaxing spaces aboard the ship.
![It was one of the most relaxing spaces aboard the ship.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96834000,width-700,height-525,imgsize-646964/it-was-one-of-the-most-relaxing-spaces-aboard-the-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
All of the plants, surrounding staterooms, live music, and dining venues made Central Park feel like a peaceful cocoon separate from the hustle and bustle of other neighborhoods.
![All of the plants, surrounding staterooms, live music, and dining venues made Central Park feel like a peaceful cocoon separate from the hustle and bustle of other neighborhoods.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833995,width-700,height-525,imgsize-328432/all-of-the-plants-surrounding-staterooms-live-music-and-dining-venues-made-central-park-feel-like-a-peaceful-cocoon-separate-from-the-hustle-and-bustle-of-other-neighborhoods-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And the only reminder that I was at sea was the balcony staterooms that formed a wall around the neighborhood.
![And the only reminder that I was at sea was the balcony staterooms that formed a wall around the neighborhood.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833985,width-700,height-525,imgsize-442616/and-the-only-reminder-that-i-was-at-sea-was-the-balcony-staterooms-that-formed-a-wall-around-the-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
I didn't eat at any of the restaurants. But just walking around and enjoying the space was enough for me to call this one of my favorite neighborhoods aboard the ship.
![I didn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833975,width-700,height-525,imgsize-278344/i-didnapost-eat-at-any-of-the-restaurants-but-just-walking-around-and-enjoying-the-space-was-enough-for-me-to-call-this-one-of-my-favorite-neighborhoods-aboard-the-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The Boardwalk also became my go-to neighborhood.
![The Boardwalk also became my go-to neighborhood.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833972,width-700,height-525,imgsize-371502/the-boardwalk-also-became-my-go-to-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But unlike the getaway feeling of Central Park, this neighborhood was far from peaceful.
![But unlike the getaway feeling of Central Park, this neighborhood was far from peaceful.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833970,width-700,height-525,imgsize-465954/but-unlike-the-getaway-feeling-of-central-park-this-neighborhood-was-far-from-peaceful-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Instead, I was impressed by how much it resembled a real wood-planked boardwalk filled with colorful accents …
![Instead, I was impressed by how much it resembled a real wood-planked boardwalk filled with colorful accents …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833961,width-700,height-525,imgsize-212938/instead-i-was-impressed-by-how-much-it-resembled-a-real-wood-planked-boardwalk-filled-with-colorful-accents-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… a carousel …
![… a carousel …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833946,width-700,height-525,imgsize-401138/x2026-a-carousel-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… a Johnny Rockets, and a hot dog stand.
![… a Johnny Rockets, and a hot dog stand.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833937,width-700,height-525,imgsize-276650/x2026-a-johnny-rockets-and-a-hot-dog-stand-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Here, you can find children playing arcade games, crawling through the suspended and netted playground, and traversing the two rock climbing walls.
![Here, you can find children playing arcade games, crawling through the suspended and netted playground, and traversing the two rock climbing walls.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833935,width-700,height-525,imgsize-323240/here-you-can-find-children-playing-arcade-games-crawling-through-the-suspended-and-netted-playground-and-traversing-the-two-rock-climbing-walls-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
All the while, their parents can catch a game at the sports bar.
![All the while, their parents can catch a game at the sports bar.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833932,width-700,height-525,imgsize-274240/all-the-while-their-parents-can-catch-a-game-at-the-sports-bar-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It's a wholesome and exciting neighborhood.
![It](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833931,width-700,height-525,imgsize-228584/itaposs-a-wholesome-and-exciting-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And the hot dog stand and candy store were a nostalgic touch that reminded me of weekends at the beach with my family.
![And the hot dog stand and candy store were a nostalgic touch that reminded me of weekends at the beach with my family.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833927,width-700,height-525,imgsize-308846/and-the-hot-dog-stand-and-candy-store-were-a-nostalgic-touch-that-reminded-me-of-weekends-at-the-beach-with-my-family-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
I've never seen spaces like the Boardwalk and Central Park aboard a cruise ship before.
![I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833926,width-700,height-525,imgsize-393694/iaposve-never-seen-spaces-like-the-boardwalk-and-central-park-aboard-a-cruise-ship-before-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And I found this creativity refreshing for a cruise brand.
![And I found this creativity refreshing for a cruise brand.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833924,width-700,height-525,imgsize-426908/and-i-found-this-creativity-refreshing-for-a-cruise-brand-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It made me forget I was on my least favorite form of travel. And they're two of the main reasons I now consider the Wonder of the Seas my favorite cruise ship.
![It made me forget I was on my least favorite form of travel. And they](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833918,width-700,height-525,imgsize-275796/it-made-me-forget-i-was-on-my-least-favorite-form-of-travel-and-theyaposre-two-of-the-main-reasons-i-now-consider-the-wonder-of-the-seas-my-favorite-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
However, the other neighborhoods weren't as distinct in design and activities.
![However, the other neighborhoods weren](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833907,width-700,height-525,imgsize-224928/however-the-other-neighborhoods-werenapost-as-distinct-in-design-and-activities-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
This includes the Royal Promenade, home of the ship's Starbucks, grab-and-go dining like the pizza shop, more shopping …
![This includes the Royal Promenade, home of the ship](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833897,width-700,height-525,imgsize-429300/this-includes-the-royal-promenade-home-of-the-shipaposs-starbucks-grab-and-go-dining-like-the-pizza-shop-more-shopping-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… and some standout bars and lounges.
![… and some standout bars and lounges.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833895,width-700,height-525,imgsize-337924/x2026-and-some-standout-bars-and-lounges-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Fans of classic English pubs can grab a pint at Cask and Clipper …
![Fans of classic English pubs can grab a pint at Cask and Clipper …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833889,width-700,height-525,imgsize-443090/fans-of-classic-english-pubs-can-grab-a-pint-at-cask-and-clipper-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… while those looking for something more unique can go to the bar manned with robotic arms instead of bartenders.
![… while those looking for something more unique can go to the bar manned with robotic arms instead of bartenders.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833885,width-700,height-525,imgsize-657752/x2026-while-those-looking-for-something-more-unique-can-go-to-the-bar-manned-with-robotic-arms-instead-of-bartenders-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
There's also a karaoke bar across from another watering hole with live music and space to dance.
![There](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833881,width-700,height-525,imgsize-219444/thereaposs-also-a-karaoke-bar-across-from-another-watering-hole-with-live-music-and-space-to-dance-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And if you're indecisive about which deck you want to spend more time on, you can always drink at the Rising Tide bar. It's a platform that rises and lowers between the Royal Promenade and above Central Park.
![And if you](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833877,width-700,height-525,imgsize-368350/and-if-youaposre-indecisive-about-which-deck-you-want-to-spend-more-time-on-you-can-always-drink-at-the-rising-tide-bar-itaposs-a-platform-that-rises-and-lowers-between-the-royal-promenade-and-above-central-park-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
These are all unique drinking venues for a cruise ship.
![These are all unique drinking venues for a cruise ship.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833870,width-700,height-525,imgsize-309972/these-are-all-unique-drinking-venues-for-a-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But the decor and intention of the Royal Promenade too closely resembled a typical cruise ship atrium for my taste.
![But the decor and intention of the Royal Promenade too closely resembled a typical cruise ship atrium for my taste.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833867,width-700,height-525,imgsize-408758/but-the-decor-and-intention-of-the-royal-promenade-too-closely-resembled-a-typical-cruise-ship-atrium-for-my-taste-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And I'm still not sure why there's an out-of-place giant metal cowboy hat ...
![And I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833862,width-700,height-525,imgsize-289630/and-iaposm-still-not-sure-why-thereaposs-an-out-of-place-giant-metal-cowboy-hat-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
... and a Ford Mustang parked in this neighborhood.
![... and a Ford Mustang parked in this neighborhood.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833857,width-700,height-525,imgsize-453692/-and-a-ford-mustang-parked-in-this-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
To me, this was a "flyover" space. I spent little of my leisure time here.
![To me, this was a "flyover" space. I spent little of my leisure time here.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833853,width-700,height-525,imgsize-302992/to-me-this-was-a-quotflyoverquot-space-i-spent-little-of-my-leisure-time-here-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But I definitely can't say the same for the Wonder of the Seas' pool deck.
![But I definitely can](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833841,width-700,height-525,imgsize-317308/but-i-definitely-canapost-say-the-same-for-the-wonder-of-the-seasapos-pool-deck-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
There were expansive rows of bright lounge chairs surrounding the multiple pools.
![There were expansive rows of bright lounge chairs surrounding the multiple pools.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833831,width-700,height-525,imgsize-365476/there-were-expansive-rows-of-bright-lounge-chairs-surrounding-the-multiple-pools-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And the colorful water slides, decor pieces, and bright accents all made this the most exciting pool deck I've ever seen.
![And the colorful water slides, decor pieces, and bright accents all made this the most exciting pool deck I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833827,width-700,height-525,imgsize-343216/and-the-colorful-water-slides-decor-pieces-and-bright-accents-all-made-this-the-most-exciting-pool-deck-iaposve-ever-seen-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The multicolored structures and decor made it difficult to visually focus on just one slide or pool.
![The multicolored structures and decor made it difficult to visually focus on just one slide or pool.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833822,width-700,height-525,imgsize-389416/the-multicolored-structures-and-decor-made-it-difficult-to-visually-focus-on-just-one-slide-or-pool-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was admittedly an overwhelming and confusing sight even after two nights at sea.
![It was admittedly an overwhelming and confusing sight even after two nights at sea.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833821,width-700,height-525,imgsize-375186/it-was-admittedly-an-overwhelming-and-confusing-sight-even-after-two-nights-at-sea-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
So it's no wonder there were always guests here during the day.
![So it](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833816,width-700,height-525,imgsize-333214/so-itaposs-no-wonder-there-were-always-guests-here-during-the-day-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Young children could spend time together at the water playground …
![Young children could spend time together at the water playground …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833797,width-700,height-525,imgsize-372218/young-children-could-spend-time-together-at-the-water-playground-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… while their older siblings can race each other down the dual water slides.
![… while their older siblings can race each other down the dual water slides.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833779,width-700,height-525,imgsize-271242/x2026-while-their-older-siblings-can-race-each-other-down-the-dual-water-slides-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The interior of these slides becomes completely dark mid-ride, adding an exhilarating and claustrophobic touch to the quick journey down.
![The interior of these slides becomes completely dark mid-ride, adding an exhilarating and claustrophobic touch to the quick journey down.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833775,width-700,height-525,imgsize-310600/the-interior-of-these-slides-becomes-completely-dark-mid-ride-adding-an-exhilarating-and-claustrophobic-touch-to-the-quick-journey-down-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But the third waterslide, which ends in a large toilet bowl-like structure, wasn't nearly as exciting.
![But the third waterslide, which ends in a large toilet bowl-like structure, wasn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833768,width-700,height-525,imgsize-255342/but-the-third-waterslide-which-ends-in-a-large-toilet-bowl-like-structure-wasnapost-nearly-as-exciting-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Instead, like other travelers, I got stuck and had to scoot myself toward the "drain" of the bowl.
![Instead, like other travelers, I got stuck and had to scoot myself toward the "drain" of the bowl.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833764,width-700,height-525,imgsize-341154/instead-like-other-travelers-i-got-stuck-and-had-to-scoot-myself-toward-the-quotdrainquot-of-the-bowl-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: YouTube
But at least I was able to simmer off some of this embarrassment at one of the several hot tubs.
![But at least I was able to simmer off some of this embarrassment at one of the several hot tubs.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833759,width-700,height-525,imgsize-356910/but-at-least-i-was-able-to-simmer-off-some-of-this-embarrassment-at-one-of-the-several-hot-tubs-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: YouTube
These water slides made me feel like a young child running around the water park with my friends.
![These water slides made me feel like a young child running around the water park with my friends.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833755,width-700,height-525,imgsize-333250/these-water-slides-made-me-feel-like-a-young-child-running-around-the-water-park-with-my-friends-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was a feeling I hadn't experienced in years. And like the Boardwalk neighborhood, I was hit with pleasant nostalgia.
![It was a feeling I hadn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833750,width-700,height-525,imgsize-296506/it-was-a-feeling-i-hadnapost-experienced-in-years-and-like-the-boardwalk-neighborhood-i-was-hit-with-pleasant-nostalgia-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
During the day, this deck saw plenty of foot traffic as children splashed around and adults lounged with their mai tais and margaritas.
![During the day, this deck saw plenty of foot traffic as children splashed around and adults lounged with their mai tais and margaritas.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833746,width-700,height-525,imgsize-296466/during-the-day-this-deck-saw-plenty-of-foot-traffic-as-children-splashed-around-and-adults-lounged-with-their-mai-tais-and-margaritas-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was only ever quiet at night. And even then, the pool deck remained vibrant with plenty of multicolor accent lights.
![It was only ever quiet at night. And even then, the pool deck remained vibrant with plenty of multicolor accent lights.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833741,width-700,height-525,imgsize-244236/it-was-only-ever-quiet-at-night-and-even-then-the-pool-deck-remained-vibrant-with-plenty-of-multicolor-accent-lights-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was an unnecessary touch given how empty the pool deck becomes after the sun sets.
![It was an unnecessary touch given how empty the pool deck becomes after the sun sets.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833735,width-700,height-525,imgsize-486298/it-was-an-unnecessary-touch-given-how-empty-the-pool-deck-becomes-after-the-sun-sets-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But I still appreciated how exciting and photogenic it made the space look.
![But I still appreciated how exciting and photogenic it made the space look.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833732,width-700,height-525,imgsize-326350/but-i-still-appreciated-how-exciting-and-photogenic-it-made-the-space-look-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
This pool deck was impressive but the family-friendly fun didn't stop there.
![This pool deck was impressive but the family-friendly fun didn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833729,width-700,height-525,imgsize-305300/this-pool-deck-was-impressive-but-the-family-friendly-fun-didnapost-stop-there-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The deck above this had even more activities, albeit a bit drier.
![The deck above this had even more activities, albeit a bit drier.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833726,width-700,height-525,imgsize-232838/the-deck-above-this-had-even-more-activities-albeit-a-bit-drier-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Here, the activities looked more similar to Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima, which I sailed on in early October.
![Here, the activities looked more similar to Norwegian Cruise Line](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833720,width-700,height-525,imgsize-277608/here-the-activities-looked-more-similar-to-norwegian-cruise-lineaposs-norwegian-prima-which-i-sailed-on-in-early-october-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: Insider
Similar to the Prima, the Wonder of the Seas had an underwater-themed mini golf course …
![Similar to the Prima, the Wonder of the Seas had an underwater-themed mini golf course …](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833716,width-700,height-525,imgsize-387106/similar-to-the-prima-the-wonder-of-the-seas-had-an-underwater-themed-mini-golf-course-x2026.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
… and a 10-story dry slide hidden tucked inside the mouth of a formidable anglerfish structure.
![… and a 10-story dry slide hidden tucked inside the mouth of a formidable anglerfish structure.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833713,width-700,height-525,imgsize-242388/x2026-and-a-10-story-dry-slide-hidden-tucked-inside-the-mouth-of-a-formidable-anglerfish-structure-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Source: Royal Caribbean
But unlike Norwegian's new vessel, the world's largest cruise ship also had a large children's playground, sports court, surf simulator, and zipline that flies over the Central Park neighborhood.
![But unlike Norwegian](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833709,width-700,height-525,imgsize-176496/but-unlike-norwegianaposs-new-vessel-the-worldaposs-largest-cruise-ship-also-had-a-large-childrenaposs-playground-sports-court-surf-simulator-and-zipline-that-flies-over-the-central-park-neighborhood-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
I've never been on a cruise ship with this many outdoor activities for families — it's enough to keep any family entertained for an afternoon.
![I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833705,width-700,height-525,imgsize-232096/iaposve-never-been-on-a-cruise-ship-with-this-many-outdoor-activities-for-families-x2014-itaposs-enough-to-keep-any-family-entertained-for-an-afternoon-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And it was a stark contrast to the adults-only Solarium section of the vessel.
![And it was a stark contrast to the adults-only Solarium section of the vessel.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833701,width-700,height-525,imgsize-299468/and-it-was-a-stark-contrast-to-the-adults-only-solarium-section-of-the-vessel-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
A Solarium with swimming pools and hot tubs isn't a novel concept aboard a cruise ship.
![A Solarium with swimming pools and hot tubs isn](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833697,width-700,height-525,imgsize-243714/a-solarium-with-swimming-pools-and-hot-tubs-isnapost-a-novel-concept-aboard-a-cruise-ship-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But here, the dome-covered lounge was flooded with natural light that graced the large lounge chairs, animal topiaries, and multi-level pool.
![But here, the dome-covered lounge was flooded with natural light that graced the large lounge chairs, animal topiaries, and multi-level pool.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833695,width-700,height-525,imgsize-345438/but-here-the-dome-covered-lounge-was-flooded-with-natural-light-that-graced-the-large-lounge-chairs-animal-topiaries-and-multi-level-pool-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It was unnecessarily spacious, which I recognize is not a common critique of cruise ship spaces.
![It was unnecessarily spacious, which I recognize is not a common critique of cruise ship spaces.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833693,width-700,height-525,imgsize-304720/it-was-unnecessarily-spacious-which-i-recognize-is-not-a-common-critique-of-cruise-ship-spaces-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But a cruise ship of this size definitely needs common spaces that can accommodate hundreds to thousands of people at once.
![But a cruise ship of this size definitely needs common spaces that can accommodate hundreds to thousands of people at once.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833686,width-700,height-525,imgsize-444062/but-a-cruise-ship-of-this-size-definitely-needs-common-spaces-that-can-accommodate-hundreds-to-thousands-of-people-at-once-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
After all, the Wonder of the Seas can sail up to 7,084 guests and 2,204 crew.
![After all, the Wonder of the Seas can sail up to 7,084 guests and 2,204 crew.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833680,width-700,height-525,imgsize-199684/after-all-the-wonder-of-the-seas-can-sail-up-to-7084-guests-and-2204-crew-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
So to feed this many mouths, the vessel has over 20 dining venues.
![So to feed this many mouths, the vessel has over 20 dining venues.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833676,width-700,height-525,imgsize-212462/so-to-feed-this-many-mouths-the-vessel-has-over-20-dining-venues-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But it should be noted that over half of them are specialty restaurants that come at an additional cost.
![But it should be noted that over half of them are specialty restaurants that come at an additional cost.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833674,width-700,height-525,imgsize-369090/but-it-should-be-noted-that-over-half-of-them-are-specialty-restaurants-that-come-at-an-additional-cost-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The Wonder of the Seas has options like a teppanyaki restaurant, a taco and burrito buffet, and an 18-person restaurant.
![The Wonder of the Seas has options like a teppanyaki restaurant, a taco and burrito buffet, and an 18-person restaurant.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833668,width-700,height-525,imgsize-288026/the-wonder-of-the-seas-has-options-like-a-teppanyaki-restaurant-a-taco-and-burrito-buffet-and-an-18-person-restaurant-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But the Royal Caribbean team scheduled me for Hooked Seafood and the Mason Jar. The latter is a new-to-brand Southern restaurant with a live band.
![But the Royal Caribbean team scheduled me for Hooked Seafood and the Mason Jar. The latter is a new-to-brand Southern restaurant with a live band.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833665,width-700,height-525,imgsize-218790/but-the-royal-caribbean-team-scheduled-me-for-hooked-seafood-and-the-mason-jar-the-latter-is-a-new-to-brand-southern-restaurant-with-a-live-band-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Hooked Seafood was satisfactory with dishes like lobster and fish with a side of butter.
![Hooked Seafood was satisfactory with dishes like lobster and fish with a side of butter.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833660,width-700,height-525,imgsize-298462/hooked-seafood-was-satisfactory-with-dishes-like-lobster-and-fish-with-a-side-of-butter-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But the Mason Jar was unfortunately disappointing.
![But the Mason Jar was unfortunately disappointing.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833657,width-700,height-525,imgsize-302126/but-the-mason-jar-was-unfortunately-disappointing-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The cocktails — including one topped with a mini peanut butter and jelly sandwich — had a unique twist on classics.
![The cocktails — including one topped with a mini peanut butter and jelly sandwich — had a unique twist on classics.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833655,width-700,height-525,imgsize-206984/the-cocktails-x2014-including-one-topped-with-a-mini-peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwich-x2014-had-a-unique-twist-on-classics-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But my main entree, fried chicken, was dry and flavorless. It was difficult to finish, and not just because the portions were massive.
![But my main entree, fried chicken, was dry and flavorless. It was difficult to finish, and not just because the portions were massive.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833651,width-700,height-525,imgsize-344620/but-my-main-entree-fried-chicken-was-dry-and-flavorless-it-was-difficult-to-finish-and-not-just-because-the-portions-were-massive-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
However, I'm surprised to say the Wonder of the Seas had the best cruise ship buffet I've ever eaten at.
![However, I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833647,width-700,height-525,imgsize-355700/however-iaposm-surprised-to-say-the-wonder-of-the-seas-had-the-best-cruise-ship-buffet-iaposve-ever-eaten-at-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
There were all-you-can-eat options like octopus and salmon tartare. I don't think I've ever seen these on a cruise buffet before.
![There were all-you-can-eat options like octopus and salmon tartare. I don](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833645,width-700,height-525,imgsize-296830/there-were-all-you-can-eat-options-like-octopus-and-salmon-tartare-i-donapost-think-iaposve-ever-seen-these-on-a-cruise-buffet-before-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
It made a simple complimentary buffet feel otherwise luxurious.
![It made a simple complimentary buffet feel otherwise luxurious.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833638,width-700,height-525,imgsize-385962/it-made-a-simple-complimentary-buffet-feel-otherwise-luxurious-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
And I never thought I would say that about a dining venue like this.
![And I never thought I would say that about a dining venue like this.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833636,width-700,height-525,imgsize-282524/and-i-never-thought-i-would-say-that-about-a-dining-venue-like-this-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
I'm just as shocked to say that I genuinely enjoyed the entertainment aboard the Wonder of the Seas.
![I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833631,width-700,height-525,imgsize-295162/iaposm-just-as-shocked-to-say-that-i-genuinely-enjoyed-the-entertainment-aboard-the-wonder-of-the-seas-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
The majority of cruise ship shows I've seen have been song-and-dance performances, which I often find boring and unoriginal.
![The majority of cruise ship shows I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833628,width-700,height-525,imgsize-1011566/the-majority-of-cruise-ship-shows-iaposve-seen-have-been-song-and-dance-performances-which-i-often-find-boring-and-unoriginal-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
Before the Wonder of the Seas, I thought the Norwegian Prima — shown below — had the most well-executed and engaging onboard entertainment.
![Before the Wonder of the Seas, I thought the Norwegian Prima — shown below — had the most well-executed and engaging onboard entertainment.](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833625,width-700,height-525,imgsize-614216/before-the-wonder-of-the-seas-i-thought-the-norwegian-prima-x2014-shown-below-x2014-had-the-most-well-executed-and-engaging-onboard-entertainment-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
But now I'm not convinced.
![But now I](https://staticbiassets.in/thumb/msid-96833623,width-700,height-525,imgsize-128108/but-now-iaposm-not-convinced-.jpg)
Brittany Chang/Insider
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