Forget underwhelming buffets – today’s cruise ships boast multiple dining venues, state-of-the-art fitness facilities and a lot more besides…
Cruise ship holidays bring to mind images of deck shuffleboard with weighted pucks and underwhelming buffet dining, but the Oasis Of The Seas soon banished my preconceptions. The Goliath of all cruise liners, the extra bulk of the ship allows for some unexpected additions, including an open-air park – complete with trees, shrubs and bronze statues – and an extreme activity hub, featuring a climbing wall, surf machines and even a zip line.
As the Oasis set sail at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, bound for the Caribbean, I took a look around to get my bearings. In search of some peace, I found the decks. A walk around the top deck promenade, looking out to sea, was the perfect way to orientate myself and take in the scenery.
At dinner I realised we had been moving for a few hours and, thankfully, I hadn’t felt the motion of the ship yet. Oasis has over 20 dining venues, including the romantic Opus Dining Room – a three-tiered hall overlooking a grand piano – which has wood panelled walls and crisp linen tablecloths. Each evening a different menu was served and there was even a specific menu for the calorie-conscious. I dined on fresh, flavoursome sea bass and puy lentils with green beans and roasted vine tomatoes – a world apart from the tired buffet I had envisaged.
Opening my eyes in the morning to the sun coming up over the horizon was a beautiful start to the day. Feeling wholesome, I shunned the fried breakfast buffet and headed for the make-your-own muesli bar. Later, I tried out the state-of-the-art onboard gym, where a virtual personal trainer urged me around a digital cycling course in the Himalayas. I also jogged around the outdoor running track. For those who prefer something more organised, there is a daily rota of fitness classes on offer, including yoga and Pilates. On my way out of the fitness centre, I refuelled at the juice bar with a carrot, apple and mint smoothie and low-fat granola bar. With this enthusiastic start, I decided to take the rest of the trip in second gear.
On the journey around the Caribbean islands, and stopping off at picturesque St Maarten and St Thomas en route, it’s just the ship and the open sea. I found the best place to take stock and watch the horizon was the Solarium – an adult-only haven. Partly covered with a conservatory-like ceiling, hot tubs and whirlpools are surrounded by decking, palm trees, loungers and egg-shaped cocoons facing the sea – perfect for curling up with a book.
The Solarium Bistro has the healthiest meal options onboard. I enjoyed a delicious lunch of oriental grilled salmon with bok choy, lentil salad and mayonnaise-free potato salad sprinkled with sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
For a treat, an aromatherapy massage in the Spa loosened my post-workout fatigue and I emerged smelling blissfully of lavender essential oil. The Spa also offers a range of facials and therapies such as reflexology.
It’s hard not to get sucked in by the array of entertainment, ranging from ice shows and musicals to comedy. However, my favourite activity was looking out to sea from my private balcony, watching reflected stars and listening to waves break on the decks below – my worries a million miles away.
Destination details
A 14-night Orlando Cruise & Stay (seven nights accommodation in Orlando and a seven-night cruise on Oasis Of The Seas) starts from £1,249 per person. Visit www.virginholidayscruises.co.uk or call 0800 840 9683 for more information or booking.
Words: Hannah Thompson
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