Sail Away with Oasis of the Seas

Imagine a cruise liner five times larger than the Titanic and you might begin to understand the scale of the new Oasis of the Seas.  This behemoth sea vessel holds upwards of 6,000 people, sits 72 meters above the waterline, and is longer than any aircraft carrier in the US fleet.

Inside, the luxury cruise ship is divided into seven distinct “neighborhoods,” including a “Central Park” that contains a 21,000-square-foot tropical garden that opens to the sky with luxurious five-story apartments on each side.  Outdoor cafes, trattorias, and chic wine bars complete the New York vibe.  The “boardwalk” neighborhood offers a Coney Island experience, complete with an cream parlor,  doughnut shop, and a life-size carousel. While Oasis of the Seas may be taller than other ships, most of its size comes from its width. Building it wider than any other passenger vessel allowed designers to open up the ship’s interior with a huge atrium.

The sheer volume of activities will entice even the most cruise-wary traveler.  Hit the waves on a surf board in the Flowrider wave pool, harness yourself into a zip wire and fly nine stories above the main deck, or dine in the 37 restaurants and bars spread over 16 levels, including a cocktail bar that rises up and down the decks.  Other highlights include a water theme park, jazz club, Broadway theater with shows like “Hairspray,” and a multitude of shopping options. Because of its size, there are very few ports where it can dock, so Oasis of the Seas has created its own resort destination in Haiti. Jamaica is upgrading its harbor to accommodate the mega cruise liner.  Other stops on the weekly seven-night trip include Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Nassau, Bahamas.

Rates start at $729 per person double occupancy for a seven-night cruise. For high-rollers, the two-level, four-person Royal Loft suite starts at $19,276. To book a trip on the Oasis of the Seas call  866-562-7625.

wandermelon’s friend, travel guru Johnny Jet went on the maiden voyage of Oasis of the Seas that departed from Fort Lauderdale.  Read about his experience at www.johnnyjet.com.