The 7-night Alaska adventure on Ovation of the Seas takes guests through the stunning landscapes of the Last Frontier aboard one of the world’s most advanced and luxurious ships
Once considered an alternative to conventional travel, cruises have evolved into a sought-after option for holidaymakers. Luxury cruises offer a blend of convenience and indulgence that traditional vacations cannot match, with unrivalled seamlessness at the heart of the experience. Imagine boarding a floating sanctuary, unpacking your bags just once for the entire journey, as your five-star abode takes you across the world’s most stunning seascapes. Instead of frequent check-ins, airport transfers and endless packing and unpacking, you get to unwind as you travel to different locations, greeted by new horizons every morning—icy blue glaciers, cascading waterfalls and majestic mountain views—with each more breathtaking than the last.
If this is what you desire, a ticket to the 7-night Alaska adventure aboard Ovation of the Seas has your name on it. Setting sail from Seattle, the cruise whisks travellers into the stunning wilderness of the Pacific Northwest before reaching Juneau, Alaska’s capital. From there, you can explore the awe- inspiring Mendenhall Glacier or embark on a whale-watching expedition. The journey continues to Skagway, where you can step back into the Gold Rush era, ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad or take a helicopter ride over the vast ice fields, capping the day with a serene hike.
In Sitka, you can embark on a kayak adventure or join a wildlife quest. A personal favourite—the Alaska Bear and Silver Bay Homestead Experience—uncovers the state’s scenic beauty through a motor coach ride and expedition boat cruise, with visits to a bear rehabilitation centre and a genuine Alaskan homestead where you’ll get to enjoy hot chocolate around a campfire. Before returning to Seattle, a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, lets you explore the famed Butchart Gardens or stroll through the city’s downtown.
At each port of call, the pampering extends beyond regular sightseeing trips. Alternative itineraries, private tours, priority access and the engagement of expert local guides for extra insight can be arranged. “Guests can work with the Shore Excursion team to design bespoke onshore experiences, ranging from private tours with personalised guides to exclusive access at popular attractions,” says Chad Grospe, Royal Caribbean International’s vice president for Asia Pacific.
Standing Ovation
As one would expect from a Royal Caribbean cruise, the onboard experiences will spoil you no end. Ovation of the Seas is equipped with a slew of entertainment and relaxation options that are designed to make the journey just as captivating as the destinations. “Through an app, guests can also personalise their onboard experience—whether it’s securing dining reservations or booking entertainment—all tailored to their unique preferences,” says Grospe.
The ship offers two outdoor pools to enjoy under the sun and two indoor pools for a relaxing retreat rain or shine. Add four whirlpools for extra indulgence and you’ve found the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. On the other hand, North Star, a glass capsule that ascends over 90m above sea level, offers 360-degree views of the Alaskan wilderness. For thrill-seekers, there’s RipCord by iFly, the first skydiving simulator at sea, as well as SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, which offers everything from bumper cars to roller skating.
Meanwhile, guests who seek relaxation can find solace at Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Centre, which offers personalised wellness treatments. Trivia games are also available, predominately at Schooner Bar and Two70, where the competitive spirit comes to life and friendly rivalry adds an extra dash of fun. Otherwise, luxury boutiques–purveyors of high-end watches, beauty products and handbags, to name a few—also serve as welcome distractions.
As day turns to night, the entertainment offerings ramp up. Ovation of the Seas is home to Two70, a multi-level venue featuring 270-degree ocean views by day and transforming into an immersive entertainment space by night. Dazzling aerial performances, robotic screens and light shows push the boundaries of live performances at sea.
Elsewhere, Casino Royale beckons high-rollers, while Royal Theater showcases Broadway-quality performances. A more intimate evening is facilitated by Music Hall with live rock concerts. For a nightcap, guests can have their pick of refined venues, including Bolero’s, where Latin rhythms set the mood, or the nautically inspired Schooner Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and piano serenades are on offer. Guests with elite status are invited to indulge in the exclusivity of the Diamond Lounge.
Dining, too, is an indulgent affair as gourmet options abound. Guests can savour everything from Jamie Oliver’s rustic Italian cuisine at Jamie’s Italian to whimsical, sensory delights at Wonderland. Japanese cuisine aficionados will relish Izumi’s fresh sushi, while the Latin-themed Boleros bar offers an energetic atmosphere for cocktails and conversation. The ship also provides a variety of casual dining options, including Windjammer Café, Coastal Kitchen, Solarium Bistro Restaurant and Sorrento’s Pizza.
As for accommodation options, Ovation of the Seas boasts a wide range, from luxurious staterooms to suites with private balconies, perfect for taking in stunning Alaskan views from the comfort of your own space. For those who choose Royal Suite Class, exclusivity reaches new heights with an array of multi-bedroom suites, loft-style accommodation and opulent penthouses. These feature private balconies, VIP seating at performances, priority boarding and access to elite venues. “It also includes access to the Royal Genie, a personal concierge who curates bespoke itineraries, arranges private dining and ensures guests enjoy a seamless, stress- free vacation from start to finish with an itinerary that is customised based on their interests,” adds Grospe.
Undeniably, Ovation of the Seas is an architectural wonder, making a compelling argument for choosing the open sea over a land-based escape. As someone who has always favoured the latter, I must admit that the allure of cruise facilities is hard to resist. It’s not just about the destinations—though they are nothing short of spectacular—it’s about the journey itself.
This story first appeared in the November 2024 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here
