Independence of the Seas
Independence of the Seas is a Freedom Class favourite that has carried guests to the Caribbean, the Bahamas and beyond since 2008. With laser tag, an escape room and a choice of speciality restaurants alongside a wide range of cabins, Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas cruise ship suits families, couples and first-time cruisers in equal measure.
Welcome to Independence of the Seas
Since joining the fleet in 2008, Independence of the Seas has built a loyal following among Royal Caribbean regulars, many of whom know the ship affectionately as "Indy". A far-reaching refurbishment in 2018 kept the ship feeling current, adding The Perfect Storm waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator, and the Battle for Planet Z laser tag arena, along with extra cabins to suit a wider range of parties.
Today, the ship carries approximately 4,375 guests, with a crew of around 1,360 looking after them across 15 decks. Guests sailing on an Independence of the Seas itinerary can expect to call at the Bahamas and destinations throughout the Caribbean, plus seasonal cruises to Bermuda, Canada and New England. Whichever port guests set sail for, the ship's Royal Promenade forms the sociable heart of the experience, lined with shops, cafes and entertainment for guests to explore between shore excursions.
Independence of the Seas: What's On Board
The Observatorium
Puzzle enthusiasts should head straight for The Observatorium, Independence of the Seas' escape room experience. With 60 minutes on the clock, guests must work through a series of clues and riddles to complete their mission, making it an entertaining way to spend an hour with family or friends.
Independence of the Seas The Observatorium Royal Escape Room
Royal Theater
Spanning two decks, the Royal Theater stages Independence of the Seas' evening entertainment, from Broadway-style productions to live music and comedy. It's a fitting way to round off a day exploring the ship or a port of call.
Independence of the Seas Alhambra Theatre
Battle for Planet Z
Guests looking for something a little different will find it at Battle for Planet Z, Independence of the Seas' glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena. Teams compete across a themed course built for pace and strategy in equal measure, making it a popular way for guests of all ages to have some fun between meals and port stops.
Independence of the Seas Laser Tag
Independence of the Seas Bars & Dining
Evening Meals to Remember
Independence of the Seas' three speciality restaurants each bring something different to the table. Chops Grille specialises in hand-cut steaks and grilled seafood, Giovanni's Table serves Italian sharing plates such as osso buco and wood-fired pizza, and Izumi rounds things off with sushi, sashimi and hibachi-style cooking for guests fancying a change of pace.
Independence of the Seas Izumi
Dining Without the Wait
Independence of the Seas keeps things simple with a range of casual dining included in the cruise fare. Windjammer serves an international buffet from breakfast through to dinner, Johnny Rockets plates up classic American diner food, and Fish & Ships, tucked beside the pool deck, dishes up battered cod and hand-cut chips for a taste of home.
Independence of the Seas Fish & Ships
Spaces to Settle In
From a quiet glass of wine to a lively night out, Independence of the Seas' bars cover plenty of ground. Schooner Bar keeps things classic with a nautical setting and nightly piano, Boleros brings Latin rhythm and cocktails to the Royal Promenade, and Vintages offers a curated wine list for guests who'd rather sip than dance.
Independence of the Seas Cabins & Accommodation
Interior
Standard: Approx. 172 sq. ft.
Promenade View: Approx. 169 sq. ft.
Connecting Promenade: Approx. 182 sq. ft.
For guests who'd rather put their budget toward shore excursions, Independence of the Seas inside cabins offer a comfortable, well-appointed base. The Promenade View grade adds a window overlooking the lively Royal Promenade below, giving guests a sense of the ship's atmosphere even without a sea view.
Ocean View
Standard: Approx. 180-211 sq. ft.
Spacious Panoramic: Approx. 211 sq. ft.
Ultra Spacious: Approx. 300 sq. ft.
These Independence of the Seas cabins bring natural light and a picture window into the mix, with the Spacious Panoramic grade offering a larger, floor-to-ceiling window. The Ultra Spacious option adds two Pullman berths, making it a sensible pick for families of up to six sharing one room.
Balcony
Ocean View Balcony: Approx. 199-214 sq. ft.
A private balcony makes every morning coffee and evening drink that little bit more special. Independence of the Seas' Balcony staterooms include a sitting area, a sofa bed for extra guests, and a private outdoor space overlooking the passing scenery.
Suite
Junior Suite: Approx. 300 sq. ft. plus a 65 sq. ft. balcony.
Grand Suite: Approx. 396-590 sq. ft.
Owner's Suite: Approx. 624 sq. ft. plus a 160 sq. ft. balcony.
Royal Suite: Approx. 1,400 sq. ft. plus a 249 sq. ft. balcony.
For guests wanting more space, Independence of the Seas suite-level rooms range from the Junior Suite's separate seating area to the two-bedroom Grand Suite, ideal for larger families travelling together. At the top, the Royal Suite offers a private balcony with its own whirlpool and dining space, plus dedicated concierge service throughout the cruise.
Independence of the Seas Pools, Health & Wellness
The Perfect Storm
Added during the ship's 2018 refurbishment, The Perfect Storm brings the Typhoon and Cyclone slides to Independence of the Seas' pool deck. Guests can race side by side across three levels of twists and turns, making it one of the more energetic ways to cool off between ports.
Independence of the Seas The Perfect Storm Slides
FlowRider
Balance is everything at the FlowRider, where a continuous sheet of water rushes across a padded deck built for surfing and bodyboarding alike. Whether guests are seasoned boarders or trying it for the first time, tiered seating around the deck keeps spectators close.
Independence of the Seas Flowrider
Vitality Spa & Fitness Center
The Vitality Spa gives guests somewhere to slow the pace, with a treatment menu that runs from massages and facials to body wraps, plus a salon for hair and nail appointments before dinner. Next door, the Fitness Center covers everything from free weights to cardio machines, along with a timetable of classes for anyone who'd rather work out in a group.
Independence of the Seas Pool Deck
Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?
Got a question about the Independence of the Seas cruise ship or another member of the Royal Caribbean fleet? Get in touch, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Independence of the Seas - Frequently Asked Questions
Guests can currently expect round-trip sailings from Cape Liberty in New Jersey to Bermuda, Canada, and New England, along with Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, with regular calls at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Speak to your Cruise Expert to learn which Independence of the Seas itineraries are currently available.
Independence of the Seas has a capacity of approximately 4,375 guests, making it one of the larger ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Despite its size, the ship's layout, including the Royal Promenade and several open-deck areas, means it never feels crowded.
Yes, the Royal Caribbean VOOM package is available to purchase onboard or in advance, giving guests internet access throughout their Independence of the Seas cruise. Guests can choose a package that covers the whole ship or is limited to the onboard cafes.
During the day, guests can dress however they're comfortable, with swimwear kept to the pool deck. Evenings call for smart-casual attire in the main dining room, and most itineraries include at least one formal night for guests who enjoy dressing up. We'd recommend checking the specific guidance for your sailing in advance.
Book an Independence of the Seas Voyage with Bolsover Cruise Club
Ship facts
