I’m a little late with this recap of my Preview Sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, but what can you do. I’ll blame it on getting engaged and the holidays. Your girl has been BUSY. But back to the matter at hand – The Symphony of the Seas. This was my 5th trip with Royal Caribbean (with Bethany by my side as always), and I have to say this is one of the coolest ships yet!
BON VOYAGE
The Symphony of the Seas departs from the port of Miami, which meant we got to experience the brand new Royal Caribbean Terminal. I have NEVER gotten on a ship so fast. It was awesome. Once we were on board Bethany and I headed straight for the Rising Tide Bar. It’s basically a slow moving elevator that serves alcohol. There’s no better place to get the lay of the land while sipping celebratory champs. After our kick off drinks, we headed back down the gangway for the naming ceremony, which was super cool! Then it was back up to the 12th deck to watch the fireworks as we departed for the Bahamas. Those are always some of my favorite photos.
The Food
One of my favorite parts about sailing with Royal Caribbean is always the food. From the specialty dining to the Windjammer there is always something for everyone! As soon as I got on board, I was begging Bethany to go straight to the pizza on deck 5 just like a little kid! Yes, I know exactly where the pizza is located before I even set foot on the ship. Did I mention this was my 5th cruise with Royal?? Anyways, looking back I’m so glad I indulged as much as I did. Now that I’m engaged and #sheddingforthewedding is in full effect, my pizza days are behind me haha.
On this sailing Bethany and I were able to have dinner at on the first night at Jamie’s Italian. We started with the classic meat plank and an order of the crab & avocado bruschetta, which did not disappoint. For my main course I found out that you could do split orders of different pastas, so I opted for the Tagliatelle Bolognese and Truffle Tagliatelle which were both amazing! I can’t wait to try to attempt to recreate them with my new Kitchenaid pasta maker. On the second night we went to Chops Grille, a Royal Caribbean classic. I always go with the caesar salad followed by surf and turf. Make sure to ask for extra Bernaise sauce on the side – you won’t be sorry! We also were able to have lunch in the Solarium Bistro (see the gorgeous table set up complete with palm leaf pillows below), which is similar to the windjammer’s buffet style but on a smaller more health conscious scale. It is by far the cutest set up on the ship in my opinion!
Two other spots worth mentioning: Sugar Beach is a new addition I haven’t seen on any of my other sailings. Picture all of the old school candy you love in bins on bins lining the walls. Perfect for my sweet tooth! Also, I loved that there was a Starbucks on board – it was the perfect pick me up for Bethany and I before we ventured off the ship in the Bahamas.
THE ROOMS
Just like the Harmony of the Seas, these are not your Grandmother’s staterooms. If I had to describe them three words: Sleek, Modern, Functional. One of my favorite spots on the boat is always my balcony. But if you are looking to save your money for excursions and drink packages, there are also balconies that open up the the interior of ship and virtual balconies! Not to mention this ship has some amazing new suite options, especially if you have a family.
THE BAHAMAS
Bethany and I decided to get up early so that we docked in the Bahamas we could take advantage of our short time there. Once we made it to the port we got a cab (make sure to have cash with you – USD is fine, so is haggling with the driver to get a better price), and headed straight to the Four Seasons Ocean Club. I’d eaten there a few times on my last trip to the Bahamas (back when it was still the One & Only), and was eager to go back and try the new menu at Dune. If the weather agrees, I highly recommend sitting on the patio. The ocean views are absolutely breath taking. After lunch we toured around the property for a while, which is expansive and gorgeous. After that we took a quick dip in the ocean before heading back to the port. All in all a great way to spend the day.
NIGHTLIFE
A new ship means all new shows and entertainment! Bethany and I were so excited to check out the new ice skating show and it did not disappoint – super entertaining and didn’t last too long (a very important aspect if you ask me). We also checked out Hairspray, which was one of my favorite musicals growing up. We may or may not have been caught singing along more than once 😉 Last but certainly not least, we had to stop by Schooner Bar for a little piano sing along. On our last cruise we convinced them to play its raining men…our performance had mixed reviews.
Outfit One: FREE PEOPLE polka dot dress (only $49!) | TARGET straw shoes (similar) | MUJI MAJA straw tote bag | BRIXTON straw hat | AMAZON heart sunglasses
Outfit Two: LULU’S white lace dress (last seen here) | RED VALENTINO bow sandals (similar // last seen here) | HM headband
Outfit Three: MINKPINK fever mini dress (also available here) | TARGET silk knot sandals | STAUD mini shirley bag
I Solomon Muwaniri and my wife Rudo Muwaniri will never sail with another company except Royal Caribbean is the best. Royal Caribbean keep it up your standard you’re the best in ships industry. On the 9 May 2020 to CocoCay Bahamas will be our 3rd cruise, the 1st was Harmony of the Seas to Mexico, the 2nd one was Sympathy of the Seas to Nassau, the 3rd on the 9th May 2020 we’re cruising to CocoCay Bahamas as we want to see CocoCay. But my question is we don’t know it we’re sailing because of the CoronaVirus please let us know as we have already packed our suitcases. Royal Caribbean let me repeat this again you’re the best on your service no one will beat. Thanks, Regards, Solomon Muwaniri (Ireland Europe)