Top 13 Reasons to Sail on Independence of the Seas with Kids
If you’re a family wondering whether the Independence of the Seas is the right choice for your next vacation because you have children, you’re not alone.
These are common concerns for any parent planning a family trip. I’m here to share our delightful experience aboard the Independence of the Seas with kids.
As a mom who frequently travels and cruises with my own kids, I understand the dilemma: Will my children enjoy it?
Will there be enough for them to do?
In this blog, I’ll guide you through the myriad of activities, entertainment, and dining options that cater specifically to families, ensuring that your children, just like mine, will have an unforgettable time.
Join me as we explore the exciting, kid-friendly world of the Independence of the Seas cruise ship and discover why it’s an excellent choice for families seeking a fun, engaging, and memorable cruise experience.
About Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas
If you’re eyeing a 2024 sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, you’re in for a tropical treat.
This year, the ship is staying true to its Caribbean roots, sailing to some of the most stunning spots in the region.
Sailing out of Miami, one of the coolest things about the 2024 routes is the variety.
We’re talking Jamaica’s reggae vibes and spicy jerk flavors, the Dominican Republic’s vibrant streets, and the secluded bliss of Labadee.
Don’t forget a stop in Cozumel, where Mexican culture and gorgeous sand beaches await.
Plus, the Bahamas, where crystal-clear waters beckon, and Royal Caribbean’s own CocoCay – a private island paradise with everything from waterparks to chill beach cabanas.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Built | 2008 |
| Guest Capacity | 4,370 passengers |
| Crew Size | 1,360 crew members |
| Length | 1,112 feet |
| Total Decks | 15 decks |
| Cruising Speed | 21.6 knots |
Splashing Around – Pools and Splashpads
Let’s discuss the Splashaway Bay on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. It’s a hit with the little ones, and here’s why:
- Dedicated Toddler Area: For those under two years old, there’s a safe, toddler-friendly zone. My 1-year-old loved it – it’s secure and just the right size for the youngest cruisers to enjoy some water fun.
- Fun Features: The big drench bucket and mini sun loungers are great. The drench bucket is a blast for the kids, and the loungers are a cute touch for a quick break from the water.
- Potty Training Required: To use the main part of Splashaway Bay (excluding the toddler area), kids need to be potty trained. It’s an important detail to keep in mind. They won’t let the kids in if they have a swim diaper.
- Height Restrictions for Slides: Be aware that the water slides have a height minimum of 42 inches. My 3-year-old, who was just under the limit, couldn’t participate, which was a bit of a letdown. So, keep this in mind to manage those little expectations.
With areas specifically designed for toddlers and older kids, there’s something for every little one in Splashaway Bay. The best part?
It’s all included in your cruise fare. It’s an excellent spot for families. Just remember to check the potty training and height requirements to ensure everyone has a good time.
Catch the Wave – The FlowRider Surf Simulator
If your family is all about thrills and excitement, you must check out the FlowRider Surf Simulator on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas.
- Surf’s Up!: The FlowRider Surf Simulator is a cool feature simulating real surfing waves. You can try bodyboarding or stand-up surfing. The feeling of catching a wave while cruising the ocean is genuinely unique!
- Safety and Requirements: Safety is critical, so there are some age and height requirements to remember. Kids need to be at least 52 inches tall for stand-up surfing, and for bodyboarding, it’s 42 inches. Also, Royal Caribbean’s dedicated staff is always there to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.
- Tips for First-Timers: If your kids are new to this, don’t worry. The instructors are fantastic – patient, skilled, and really good at giving beginners confidence. My advice? Give it a go, even if you’re a bit nervous. It’s such a fun experience and a great story to tell.
Adventure Ocean – The Ultimate Kids Club
Embarking on a cruise with kids and wondering how to keep them entertained? Let me introduce you to Adventure Ocean – the ultimate kids club on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. The best part is that it is included in your cruise fare!
- Activities for Every Age: Adventure Ocean is ingeniously divided into age-appropriate groups. For the tiny tots (ages 3-5), activities like arts and crafts and storytime keep them engaged and giggling. Kids aged 6-8 can dive into science experiments and themed parties, while the 9-11 age group enjoys more advanced activities and games.
- Engaging and Educational: What stands out is how the activities are designed to be fun and educational. Your kids can learn about different cultures, pick up some science facts, or just let loose with creative arts.
- Special Events and Themed Nights: The themed nights are a blast! My kids still talk about the ‘Pirate Night’ where they dressed up and went on a treasure hunt around the ship. It’s these little touches that make the experience so memorable for them.
- Highly Qualified Staff: What really impressed us was the staff’s qualifications. Every team member has at least three to five years of experience working with children, ranging from six months to 17 years. Their expertise and genuine care for children shone through in every interaction.
Adventure Cean is one of the reasons why a cruise on the Independence of the Seas can be such a hit with families.
So, while you’re sipping that cocktail or enjoying a quiet dinner, rest assured your kids are having the time of their lives!
Babies and Tots Nursery
And hey, let’s not forget about the family’s littlest members! For my 1-year-old, we used the Babies and Tots Nursery on the Independence of the Seas, and it was a lifesaver. It’s a cozy, well-equipped space designed specifically for babies and toddlers.
- Babies and Tots Nursery: This nursery is a peaceful little haven for children under 3. They’ve got everything from cribs for nap times to loads of toys for playtime. The environment is clean, safe, and just perfect for little ones.
- Professional Care and Upcharge: The staff here are so professional and caring. You can tell they love kids and are really good at what they do. Yes, there is an upcharge for this service, but it’s absolutely worth it for the peace of mind and a bit of grown-up time on the ship.
- Stay Connected with a Phone: One of the things I appreciated the most was that they gave us a phone. It meant we could head off to enjoy the ship, knowing we’d be called immediately if our baby needed us for any reason. It’s such a reassuring touch, ensuring you’re always connected to your little one.
- Specialized Nursery Training: In the nursery, staff members are experienced and specifically trained. They undergo a rigorous 30-hour Nursery Training program aligned with Florida State Standards of care in addition to the 3-5 years of childcare experience they must have to work for Royal Caribbean. This ensures they provide the highest care and engagement for the youngest cruiser.
Using the Babies and Tots Nursery gave us the perfect balance – some quality time with our older child in Adventure Ocean, adult-only moments for us, and the knowledge that our youngest was cared for and happy.
It’s these thoughtful services that make cruising with a family so much more relaxing and enjoyable!
Ice Skating at Sea
- Ice Skating Rink on Board: Tucked away on the ship is a full-sized ice skating rink. It’s amazing to think you can glide on ice while cruising the ocean. The rink is spacious and well-maintained.
- Open Skate for Families: The rink has open skate times scheduled throughout the cruise. These sessions are great for families to enjoy together. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, it’s an awesome experience. And don’t worry about packing your skates – they provide them, along with safety gear.
- Showtime on Ice: Not only can you skate on the rink, but you can also watch professional shows. These ice shows are fantastic, featuring talented skaters performing beautiful routines. My kids were mesmerized.
- Check the Royal Caribbean App: For the schedule and availability, keep an eye on the Royal Caribbean App. It’ll give you all the info on open skate times and show schedules. Plan ahead to make sure you fit this in, as the sessions can be quite popular.
Movies Under the Stars
One of my family’s favorite activities on Independence of the Seas was snuggling up on the pool deck and enjoying the Movie Nights Under the Stars.
It’s an experience that combines the magic of movies with the fun of the open sea!
- Outdoor Movie Screenings: Picture this: a giant screen set up on the pool deck under the starry sky. This is where families gather in the evening to watch movies. The setting is just perfect – there’s something about watching a film out in the open ocean that feels really special.
- Family-Friendly Films: The movie selection is fantastic and caters to all ages, primarily focusing on family-friendly titles. Whether it’s the latest animated hit the kids are dying to see or a classic everyone loves, there’s always something for everyone.
- Comfort and Snacks: The ship provides comfortable seating and blankets to snuggle up and get cozy for the movie. And what’s a movie without snacks, right? Popcorn and other treats are usually available, making it a complete movie night experience.
- Check the Daily Schedule: The screenings are scheduled throughout the cruise, usually in the evenings when the vibe is just right for a movie. You can check the ship’s daily schedule on the Royal Caribbean App for the exact timings and movie titles.
Dining with Kids on Independence of the Seas
The diverse dining options on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas are a foodie family’s dream come true.
There’s something to tantalize every taste bud, and the kids are in for some delightful treats!
- Windjammer Cafe: a buffet-style eatery with a smorgasbord of choices. It’s perfect for families because everyone can find something they love, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies.
- Sugar Beach Candy Store: Sugar Beach is a must-visit for a sweet treat. It’s a true paradise for kids and, let’s be honest, adults too. The array of sweets is just incredible, and the colorful decor adds to the fun vibe.
- Ben and Jerry’s: Need a cool treat? Ben and Jerry’s onboard offers all those famously quirky and delicious ice cream flavors. It’s a hit with the kids, especially after a day of sun and fun.
- Sorrento’s Pizza: Who doesn’t love pizza? Sorrento’s is the go-to for a casual, family-friendly meal on the royal promenade. They serve up a variety of pizzas, so whether you’re a classic cheese lover or a pepperoni fanatic, they’ve got you covered.
- Promenade Cafe: For a quick and easy bite, the Promenade Cafe is ideal. It’s great for grabbing a coffee, a light snack, or a pastry – perfect for when the kids need something to keep them going.
- Fantastic Waiters in the Main Dining Room: Let’s talk about the main dining room – the waiters there are fantastic with kids. They go out of their way to make sure the kids are having as much fun as the adults. Our servers always made sure to make our kids feel special. This level of service turns a meal into a memorable experience.
- Specialty Dining like Izumi: For those looking for something different, specialty dining options like Izumi offer delicious Asian cuisine. For a fee, these restaurants provide a more upscale dining experience and are perfect for a special family dinner.
- Johnny Rockets: Step into the ’50s at Johnny Rockets, where you can enjoy classic American diner fare. Burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a fun, retro setting make for a fantastic family meal. Note: There is an upcharge for food at Johnny Rockets, so heads up.
Comfortable and Convenient Staterooms
One of the key aspects of ensuring a comfortable journey is choosing the right stateroom.
On Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, you’ll find a variety of family-friendly staterooms designed with comfort and convenience in mind.
- Variety of Stateroom Options: Whether you’re a small family or a larger group, there’s a stateroom to suit your needs. You can choose from cozy interior rooms, ocean-view rooms with stunning views, or spacious balcony rooms for that extra bit of luxury. For larger families, there are also suites available that offer more space and additional amenities.
- Family-Friendly Features: Many staterooms are designed with families in mind. Think about pull-out sofas or bunk beds, which are perfect for kids. Also, the rooms are equipped with TVs and in-room entertainment, which can be a lifesaver when you need some downtime.
- Amenities for Convenience: You’ll find amenities that make life a little easier in a family stateroom. This includes ample storage for all your luggage and essentials, mini-fridges for snacks and drinks, and a bathroom designed to accommodate multiple people getting ready at the same time.
- Safety and Comfort: Safety rails on bunk beds so that you can get a restful sleep knowing your child won’t roll off. You can request a crib or pack-and-play from guest services if your little one needs it.
- Connecting Rooms: If traveling with a larger group or older kids, you can opt for connecting rooms. This gives you the perfect balance of privacy and togetherness, ensuring everyone has their own space while still being just a door away.
Shows and Live Entertainment
Are you and your family ready for some dazzling entertainment at sea?
Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas offers a spectacular array of shows and live entertainment that will amaze and delight everyone, from the tiny tots to the grown-ups.
- Musicals: One of the highlights is the musical production of ‘Grease.’ It’s a fantastic rendition of the classic, filled with those catchy tunes we all know and love. The energy, the costumes, the music – it’s a full-blown Broadway experience at sea. Watching Danny, Sandy, and the gang is a treat for the whole family and a great way to introduce the little ones to the world of musical theater.
- Magic Shows and More: Aside from musicals, you might be entertained by a magic show. It will leave the kids wide-eyed in amazement.
- Enjoying the Shows: The ship’s theaters are spacious and comfortable, ensuring a great view from almost every seat. Check the daily schedule for show times, and plan to arrive a bit early to get your preferred seats.
Sports and Fitness Options
Thinking about keeping active and having fun while on your family cruise?
On Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, there are plenty of sports and fitness options to keep everyone in the family moving and having a blast.
- Rock Climbing Wall: Ready for a challenge? The rock climbing wall is an absolute must-try. It’s not every day you get to scale a wall in the middle of the ocean! It is suitable for beginners and seasoned climbers and offers different routes to suit various skill levels. And the view from the top? Simply unbeatable!
- Basketball Court: Shoot some hoops at the full-size basketball court. It’s a great place for a family pickup game or to join in on one of the organized tournaments.
- Mini Golf: The mini-golf course is perfect for a more relaxed pace. It’s a fun and great way to spend time together as a family, with just the right mix of challenge and fun. The course is well-designed and great for all ages.
- Family Fitness Classes: If you’re looking to stay fit as a family, check out the family fitness classes. These classes are a great way to stay active and have fun together. They’re designed to be accessible for all fitness levels, making them perfect for families.
- Jogging Track: For those who enjoy a morning run or a leisurely stroll, the jogging track is a breath of fresh air. Circumnavigating the ship, it provides stunning ocean views as you exercise.
- Open Play and Organized Activities: The ship often organizes sports tournaments and activities, which can be an excellent way for the family to engage in some friendly competition or even meet other families on board.
Gaming and Thrills – Arcade and Virtual Experiences
When it comes to family vacations, finding activities that keep the kids entertained and thrilled is key.
On Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, the Arcade hit that sweet spot. My son, for instance, couldn’t get enough of it – it was hands down his favorite spot on board!
- The Arcade: Step into the Arcade, and you’re entering a world of colorful lights, exciting sounds, and endless fun. It’s equipped with a wide range of games, from classic arcade favorites to the latest in gaming technology. Whether it’s racing games, shooting games, or skill challenges, there’s something to captivate kids (and, let’s be honest, adults, too!) of all ages.
- A Kid’s Haven: Speaking from personal experience, this place is like a magnet for kids. The variety of games entranced my son. He would have spent all day there if he could! It’s a perfect spot for kids to enjoy independent play while parents can join in the fun or take a little breather.
- Something for Everyone: The great thing about the arcade is that it appeals to a wide range of ages and interests. Younger kids can enjoy simpler games, while older kids and teens can challenge themselves with more complex games and virtual experiences.
- Tokens and Play Time: The games operate on a credit system, so you can load up your sea pass card and let the kids have their fun. It’s a convenient setup that allows for easy monitoring of playtime and spending. Helpful Hint: Arcade credits are cheaper if you purchase them online before your cruise.
Escaping Together – The Escape Room
Welcome to the Escape Room! Located on the top deck, this experience is a fantastic way for families with older kids to engage in a thrilling, brain-teasing adventure together.
- The Escape Room Experience: Imagine being in a room where clues, puzzles, and codes are the only way out. The Escape Room on the ship is designed to be immersive and challenging. It’s a race against the clock to solve the mysteries and ‘escape’ before time runs out.
- Perfect for Families with Older Kids: While this activity is a blast, it’s important to note that it’s suitable for ages 12 and older. The puzzles can be challenging, making them more appropriate for tweens, teens, and adults. It’s an excellent opportunity for families with older children to work together, combining different strengths and skills.
- Booking and Participation: Given its popularity, it’s a good idea to book your Escape Room experience early on in the cruise. The challenge is designed for a set number of participants, ensuring everyone gets actively involved.
- A Unique Experience at Sea: Doing an escape room while cruising adds a unique twist to this popular activity. It’s a break from the typical beach and poolside activities, offering mental stimulation and a lot of laughs.
Laser Tag
Looking for an action-packed family activity on your next cruise?
Get ready for the exhilarating world of Laser Tag aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas!
It’s a high-energy game perfect for families looking to add excitement to their sea days.
- Laser Tag Setup: Step into a vibrant, neon-lit arena where you and your family can immerse yourselves in a thrilling game of laser tag. The impressive setup, with obstacles and hideouts that makes the game challenging and fun. It’s like entering a different world, where strategy and quick reflexes are key.
- Family-Friendly Adventure: Laser Tag is fantastic for families because it’s a game that kids and adults can enjoy together. It’s suitable for players who are at least five years old and 40 inches tall, making it accessible for younger family members, too. We absolutely loved the experience – darting around, zapping, and working as a team to outsmart the opposition.
- Teamwork and Strategy: One of the best parts about Laser Tag is how it encourages teamwork. Families can play together, strategizing and cooperating to win the game. It’s a great way for kids to learn about teamwork while being active and having a ton of fun.
- Exciting and Safe: The game is fast-paced and exhilarating, but safety is always a priority. The equipment is user-friendly and safe for children, ensuring a worry-free experience for parents. Plus, the staff is always on hand to guide and ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Booking and Availability: Laser Tag is a popular activity on the ship, so it’s a good idea to book your slot early. The sessions are well-organized, allowing multiple families to participate and enjoy the game throughout the cruise.
Final Thoughts on Independence of the Seas with Kids
Wrapping up our exploration of the Independence of the Seas, it’s clear that this ship is a fantastic choice for families.
With its blend of fun activities, family-friendly shows, and diverse food options, there’s something for everyone, from the littlest cruisers to the adults.
My own kids had a blast, and it was a joy to watch them experience everything the ship had to offer.
So, if you’re thinking about where to take your family on your next vacation, the Independence of the Seas should definitely be on your radar.
It’s more than just a trip; it’s a chance to make some wonderful memories with your kids. Here’s to your next family adventure and the many more that will follow!
