Repositioning Cruises
We nornally don’t take crusies on mega-ships (ships designed to carry more than 3,500 passengers), but we found ourselves on the West coast and this cruise appeared on our radar, so we took another look.
The ship was repositioning from Australia to Vancouver to spend the Summer months taking passengers to Alaska. Most cruises start and stop at the same port, but a repositioning cruise starts and stops at different ports. These types of cruises are not as popular and the ships can be less crowded, making the mega-ship appear less congested. Repositioning cruises can also be a bit less expensive since the company is just trying to get the ship into position for normal operations.
The itinerary was also favorable to us, with 3 quick stops on the Hawaiian islands, then 6 straight days at sea before arriving in Vancouver. Plenty of time to relax and just listen to the waves.
Ovation of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, designed for maximum entertainment.
If you like activities, this ship delivers:
The North Star – This is, quite literally, the high point of the cruise. The glass capsule gently lifts you over 300 feet above sea level, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the ship and the surrounding ocean.
2. RipCord by iFLY – Ever wanted to skydive? Now you can, right in the middle of the ocean! The RipCord is a simulated freefall experience in a controlled wind tunnel.
3. SeaPlex – The largest indoor activity space at sea is a game-changer, especially on colder itineraries like Alaska. By day, it hosts everything from bumper cars (prepare for a long queue—it’s that popular!) to roller skating and a full-size basketball court. By night, it often transforms into a vibrant dance party or an atmospheric space for activities.
Dining Delight: From Global Buffets to Imaginative Feasts
The food on Ovation of the Seas is varied and there is enough to satisfy every craving, from quick snacks to elegant specialty dining.
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Complimentary Favorites: The Windjammer Marketplace is the bustling, high-quality buffet offering global cuisine. For casual, late-night bites, Sorrento’s Pizza and The Dog House (artisanal hot dogs) are lifesavers. The Main Dining Room (MDR) provides multi-course elegance, though some reviews suggest setting expectations to “very good” cruise fare, rather than fine dining.
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Specialty Restaurants:Savor hand-cut steaks at Chops Grille, enjoy Tuscan-inspired dishes at Jamie’s Italian, or explore innovative fare at Wonderland.
- Entertainment: Lights, Robots, and Aerialists
The nightlife and entertainment venues on the Ovation leverage cutting-edge technology, most notably in the ship’s most unique space:
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Two70: This futuristic lounge is simply stunning. By day, the massive, two-story windows offer panoramic views. By night, the space transforms, with six robotic screens providing a dynamic backdrop for the impressive Pixels show, which blends live performers, Vistaramas (digital screens), and aerialists.
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The Royal Theatre: This is where you’ll find the main Broadway-style productions.
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Bionic Bar: While mainly a novelty, watching robot bartenders mix your custom cocktails is a must-see!
Final Verdict
The Ovation of the Seas is a marvel of modern engineering and design. It’s perfect for active families and multi-generational groups who appreciate constant, high-energy activities. Its enclosed, climate-controlled spaces (like the SeaPlex and Solarium) also make it an ideal choice for colder destinations where you want the fun to continue regardless of the weather.