CR17 nov21 18/11/08 14:18 Page 70
knowledge cruise
ttglive.com
Independence of the Seas
TTG’s Face of Travel
Ryan Inman
checked out Royal
Caribbean’s
Independence
of the Seas as
part of his prize
After several failed attempts, Ryan finally masters the FlowRider, the surf simulator on Independence of the Seas
Ryan goes with the flow
H
aving been on Independence of than it looks. My first efforts followed a simi- Speciality restaurants are also available,
the Seas for the final of TTG’s Face lar pattern. First time, fell off. Second time, but reservations are necessary.
of Travel competition, I had an fell off. You get the picture. Then on the Entertainment ranges from the amazing
idea of what to expect. fourth time I managed to stand up – and ice performances to a different evening
But I was looking forward to spending then fell off. show each night, or you can relax and listen
some time onboard on a cruise to get a first- Fortunately, on the fifth time I managed to a live band, visit the pyramid lounge or
hand experience. to stay upright for 10 seconds before the head to the nightclub. There is
Our itinerary visited the Canary Islands, inevitable, but it was a great experience. something for all age groups.
Madeira, Lisbon and Vigo, and the weather Anyone can go on the FlowRider; all you During the week, we saw
was fantastic for October. need to do is sign a waiver on your first day a blind couple who were
Waking up each morning to see a new port and you’re covered throughout your cruise. assisted throughout the
of call is one of the highlights of cruising. You can even have private lessons or sign ship, and on the last
At the start, the port experience and up for group lessons with a surf instructor. night we joined them at
check-in was smooth and I would recommend Other than the FlowRider, there is so the roulette table and they
sailings from Southampton to my clients. much to do onboard, with duty-free shop- sang the praises of the
Our cabin was spacious, airy and, most ping on the promenade, a spa, casino and Royal Caribbean staff.
importantly, had a balcony so we had box the onboard ice rink. When it came to the end of
seats to our destinations. There are numerous places to eat onboard, the cruise, my overriding
Our first two days were at sea, which gave and the food and service we received at our impression was that
us time to explore, and there was no doubt allocated meal times was fantastic. you could sell
where I wanted to go first – the FlowRider. If you want a more flexible option, you Independence
The surf simulator pumps out 32 gallons can get a buffet meal or visit Johnny Rockets, of the Seas to
of water per minute and you have to try to an American diner which has a small any type of
balance on it. Believe me, it’s a lot harder surcharge of $3.50 but is well worth it. client.
70 21.11.2008
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