#Viking Ocean Cruise

[deborabuerk-the-write-stuff]

Klondike Gold Rush of 1898: The Relentless Quest for Wealth in Alaska

In 1898, Skagway, Alaska, experienced a population boom due to the Klondike Gold Rush. Prospectors flocked to the region in search of wealth, enduring harsh conditions and facing limited success. The gold rush eventually declined as prospectors moved to o

Overlooking the Coloseeum in Rome, Italy, 2024. By Debora Ragland BuerkWriter, editor, and sometimesfamily hstorian In the summer of 1898, the gold-rush gateway of Skagway boasted a population of between 15,000 and 20,000, making it the largest city in Alaska. The Relentless Search for Klondike Gold In August 1896, enormous quantities of gold were discovered by local miners along a tributary…

[rdwetmore]

Travel Reminiscing - February 2, 2020

Day 10 of our 2020 Viking Chilean Fjords & south America cruise on the “Viking Jupiter”. Another sea day in the South Atlantic as we sail north off the Patagonia coast. Spent the afternoon on our veranda and the sundeck photographing the majestic sea birds as they glide effortlessly hundreds of miles from shore. This day was Superbowl Sunday, so the ship put on a watch party on the pool deck.…

[thetravelspy]

An often asked question from people who have never taken a river cruise.

[pollunam]

Flaws. Part 1.

Warnings: 18 + blood, and canon typical violence.

"So, Gus, I want to introduce you to a lady who will be joining you," Gabbin nodded, gesturing to open the door. I stood confidently behind her, fiddling with my gloves. I wouldn't say I was easily frightened. Try being scared when your father made you throw knives at apples atop your brother's head from childhood.

The door creaked open, revealing a smoke-filled room. Smoke swirled elegantly in the air, forming intricate patterns against dark wallpaper and faces full of hope, albeit not the most enthusiastic ones.

"Well, this is Gus March-Phillips. Maybe not the finest gentleman, but he knows his trade," Gabbin introduced.

"Welcome, milady," he smiled, adjusting his already curled mustache.

I nodded. "Lovely coat, I think I've seen it on someone else before."

Gabbin sighed heavily. "It's time for you to go, before he starts undressing me."

I smiled, pulling out a cigarette. Gus promptly offered a lighter.

"And I'm certain I've seen it somewhere too."

With that remark came two heavy sighs, and we triumphantly left the room. There was no time to think about formalities; we had a challenging task ahead, which I already knew about, but this man inspired confidence.

"Our team is quite unusual, I trust you understand that," Gus closed the car door with my suitcases already inside. The driver set off, illuminating the gravel road with yellow headlights.

"It doesn't bother me; I'm part of this 'unusual' company," I air-quoted.

"They'll like you."

"Now I'm nervous," I chuckled.

"I just can't figure out how they picked you for this assignment. You don't look like a reckless headhunter at all."

"Someone has to keep an eye on you boys."

The car stopped at the pier. The night air was fresh and breezy, blowing in from the ocean. Salty splashes danced joyfully at the shore, cresting with white foam on the sand. The sky glittered with a myriad of stars, perhaps the most romantic scene I'd ever witnessed. I stood mesmerized, watching the waves break beautifully against the pier.

"Enjoying the view?" Gus held my suitcases. "Too bad, it's time to go. I'm sure the ship's view won't disappoint."

I nodded quickly, following him.

"Finally, we've been waiting for you," someone shouted from the deck, and a head in a comical sailor hat appeared over the stern. "Good evening, milady," the stranger whistled, offering his hand. "Graham at your service."

I smiled. "Thank you for your help. This dress isn't the best attire for a ship." With one hand, I lifted the hem of my dress to climb aboard.

"Then take it off," a broad-shouldered man with round glasses appeared in the cabin doorway. His accent marked him as a foreigner. Tall and sturdy, he resembled a Viking woven from northern winds.

"Isn't that a bit forward of you?" I retorted.

"I didn't mean what you thought, mind you," he chuckled warmly.

"Then say it so you're understood."

"Affirmative, my dear."

I flared up. The big guy was clearly teasing me.

"Anders, where are your manners?" Gus shook his head. "We're not a band of brigands; we're gentlemen who never underestimate ladies. Especially ones like her."

"Are you planning to travel with us?" Anders agilely descended from the cabin. "This isn't an Atlantic cruise."

Graham whistled again. "Pay him no mind. He's big, but not the brightest."

"No problem. I just don't understand how such a massive bear isn't sinking the ship with his presence."

Anders squinted. "I find that amusing."

"I'll try to entertain you more often," I smirked.

"Good evening! I'm Freddy," a man appeared from behind, sporting a blue scarf around his neck. He smiled warmly and openly.

"I'll show you to your cabin. Space is tight, but we'll find something suitable," Gus gestured for me to go ahead, descending a small staircase inside.

The large room served as a dining area, kitchen, and bedroom with two bunk beds. It smelled of apples and wine. The beds were neatly made, and an open bottle of alcohol sat on the table, emitting a pungent scent.

"The safest bet would be one of these beds."

"Seems like there aren't enough."

"Don't worry, we've got sleeping bags."

"I can take it, no problem. I've slept in worse conditions."

"No, no. We'll do it differently," Gus grinned, "forget about the sleeping bag, it's pure mockery."

"Listen, Gus, I appreciate that, really, but it's not necessary at all."

"It's absolutely necessary, trust me. Conversation's over, just like the tour. Make yourself comfortable," he said, heading upstairs heavily, while I sat at the table, resting my head on my hands. Thoughts leapt and tangled in my mind. Well, this adventure was right up my alley: gunfire, smell of danger, and the scent of pure escapade.

I pulled out trousers and a white shirt from my suitcase and quickly changed, listening to voices from above.

"Someone needs to sleep in the sleeping bag tonight. We'll take turns after."

"I can do it, no problem," a hearty man offered. I chuckled approvingly, tying my hair up in a bun.

By the time I finished brewing tea for everyone, the ship had already set sail. Carefully, I climbed up, carrying four mugs.

"Thanks a lot!" Graham smiled, noticing me; he immediately took one cup, "need a hand?"

"No, it's alright, I'll manage."

Fredrick appeared right away, "now that's service."

"Just a friendly gesture."

Gus stood at the helm.

"Hey! Up there! Tea?"

"Leave it there, I'll get it later!" he shouted back.

I carefully placed the mug on the stair step and looked around for the Viking. How could one miss such a broad man - it was a mystery. A silhouette appeared at the stern. Anders was coiling rope, sitting on the edge of the hull; he seemed completely absorbed in his thoughts, focused on his task.

"Hi again," I leaned against the rail, offering him a steaming cup, "care for some?"

"Is it poisoned?"

"No, if I wanted to kill you, I wouldn't do it so blatantly."

"Now I'll have to be on guard," Anders smiled, taking the tea, "thanks."

I looked at the receding shore, flickering in the darkness like a fallen star.

"Why are you here? I mean, your job... it's quite... dangerous."

"It's a long story of family drama, but I'm glad to be where I am, despite the danger."

"I understand, yes," the Viking nodded, "I have a similar story."

"Where are you from?"

"Denmark."

"Ah, a true Viking," I smiled, "how could I possibly be scared then?"

"Still, don't anger me, alright," Anders also smiled, adjusting his glasses, "I like how you called me that, but please don't spread the idea."

"Deal."

We sat in silence, listening to the sound of water pushing against the hull and the wind whistling through the sails. The coolness enveloped me, but it seemed I had completely forgotten about it, imagining London engulfed in fire and war, left behind. Ahead, the horizon blended seamlessly with the ocean in a vast blue landscape.

"Aren't you cold?" Anders broke the fragile silence.

"A bit, but it's so beautiful here, I can't stop admiring."

"Better go below, it's easy to catch a cold in the ocean."

I nodded, "I'll go down soon."

Alone again, I leaned against the stern, staring at the ocean's surface. Dark as lead. I didn't feel like sleeping.

"Here," I didn't even notice Anders returning, handing me a blanket, "for the tea."

"Thanks, what will you do for two teas?"

"Save the pleasure for later. Although, you did take off your dress."

"Hey, Viking!"

He laughed, "I'm just kidding."

"Go already, or you'll catch a cold," I teased him back, wrapping the blanket around my shoulders.

"Just a tip, if you're sailing for the first time, it's easy to get seasick if you stare at the water. You won't notice when you fall in."

"My intuition tells me to listen to you, but common sense suggests testing that theory."

"Now I see why you're here," he sat on coiled ropes, "go ahead, test it."

"You're a troublemaker."

"How so?" Anders raised his eyebrows in confusion, "I've been sitting quietly, brought you a blanket, and said nothing about your clothes."

"Alright," I turned away.

In reality, I felt dizzy. I couldn't afford to collapse now, or else there would be enough jokes to fill three huge books titled "I'm the funniest person on Earth and I'm called the Giant Viking."

" You know, you really annoy me. I'd better go."

Anders slyly raised his eyes at me, "just like that? Just because of me, darling? You give up quickly."

"I've had enough of your teasing for today."

"Well then, good night."

He didn't move from his spot, not even a twitch, much like me. My legs felt weak.

"Are you alright?" Graham shouted, having taken over from Gus at his post, he raised an eyebrow, "you don't look too good."

"You all here are masters at giving compliments."

"I meant you look kinda green."

"Ah, no, that's my natural skin tone," I waved dismissively, feeling nausea creeping up.

"Alright, then can I take Anders from you? I need some help."

"No problem."

Anders stared at me intently, gripping the ship's railing.

"Five minutes, buddy," he signaled to Graham with five fingers, climbing up. "You know, my intuition tells me to just toss you overboard, but common sense," he scooped me up, throwing me over his shoulder, "suggests helping you again."

"Let me go, I'm about to be sick," I covered my mouth with my hand.

"Not on my favorite sweater. Hang in there."

"Oh God!" Everything blurred before my eyes. "I'm not kidding."

Anders sat me down on the step leading to the helm. "Don't go anywhere," he smirked.

I dropped my head back, closing my eyes. Silly rocking. Silly mission and silly Viking.

"Pour."

"What are you pouring?" I couldn't open my eyes, and that turned out to be a blessing because right after that command, water splashed over me. It eased the discomfort.

"I don't know what's wrong with your character, darling, but this is the second time in a couple of hours that I've had to come to your aid. And now I'll have to sleep in a sleeping bag instead of a warm bed."

"Well, it'll pass quickly," Graham's voice assured me, "I've been through the same."

"I warned you."

"It's okay, she'll recover," Freddie chimed in.

And I still couldn't open my eyes. I had no idea the ocean was a worse enemy than the Germans.

"Can you get up?"

"Yeah, just a minute," I sighed, gathering my strength, and slowly stood up, leaning on the railing. "I feel better, thank you, really."

"You'll feel like a fish in water tomorrow," Graham promised, "good night."

I nodded, unable to carry on the conversation.

"Let's go," Freddie offered his hand.

Anders critically observed what was happening, folding his arms across his chest.

1:0 in his favor, it seems. However, there's still plenty ahead.

[sparkiekong]

Sometimes dreams feel like windows into a multiverse. The worst one is this recurring dream where I'm this Cuban woman. I live a modest but great life as a hotel cleaner and on my way back to my meager one room apartment over looking a dock that's full of cruise ships and seaside beach. I'm incredibly happy until I notice the ocean receding back out of sight, like something sucked up the ocean with a straw. It takes a brief millisecond or two before my brain realizes that the only thing that draws the ocean away is a tsunami. I look up into the sky and watched in horror as the sky became a giant wave that was eating clouds. I run towards the top of my building yelling at people and trying to get children up the stairs as the wave comes in, but I'm already too late. I'm already dead and then I just stop and the waves take me.

---

Today, the dream was an ancient one, I was a Norse woman waiting alongside the sea for my man to return from plundering. Vikings are and have always been pirates, this was the way of life then. I'm picking shells off the coast waiting for him to return when the ocean disappears away from the coast. In this one, I realize that I'm the Cuban woman from my other dream and I am this Viking woman and I show no fear, I stand there quietly waiting for , Rán a goddess of the sea to cast the net and lift me up to Valhalla.

--

meanwhile the me who lives in this universe wakes up shaking and shivering, looking like a crazy cat lady going... wtf. I had no idea who Rán is. The viking was seeing the future, the cuban was seeing her present and I'm viewing both as dreams that feel like past life events.

[mandylove1000]

Ok so. These are my tattoos and I’ll give a reason why for them (if there is one)

So the first one I got was the dream catcher (I know basic white girl shit) it’s kinda for my grandma on my moms side I never got to meet. She was always super interested in Native American culture and stuff so I kinda got it for her.

The second one is actually the quote right there. It’s from the first hunger games book and it’s when katniss sees herself for the first time after the glam squad. There’s just something about that quote that stuck with me.

Tattoos 3&4 the word is wanderlust and then the globe with a flower(obviously doesn’t look like a flower😂) I love traveling so this was a no brainer for me honestly. Yes the colors are patchy af. I don’t think my skin likes colors or something 😂

This is 5,6&7. 5 was honestly cause I wanted it. 6 is the name of a song weirdly enough. And 7 again just another phrase that I liked.

8,9&10. 8 is ; self explanatory if you know.(it’s actually covered up but I am still counting it bc I can still see it😂) 9 is always keep fighting. It’s something Jared Padalecki says and has made shirts/hoodies for (I have 2) 10 is a wave. I absolutely love the ocean and my happy place is honestly on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean.

11…….can I act like this one doesn’t exist. No? Fuck ok. Soooooo this is a “matching” best friend tattoo. (If you need a sign to not get matching bestie tattoos HERES THE SIGN. DONT. FUCKING. DO. IT.) This is a matching one me and my now ex best friend got. It’s her hand writing the mermaid tail(well aware it doesn’t look like one) is her drawing as well. Her fave Disney movie she got the tangled lantern cause it’s my fave. Idk if the bitch still has hers I am honestly prob covering the tail part but keeping the word bc it can be a reminder of the time me and my family went to Hawaii. With that being said next.

This is 12,13&14. 12&13 are both runes from shadowhunters. Love that show had to have them. The heart is a nod to another ex friend but I don’t really care about that one. I’ve always like little heart tattoos so yeah.

This is 15,16,17,18,19. 15 a nod to Harry Potter and the flash(also just wanted it) 16 is actually the new ; which is shaped like planets and all that. 17 is my little Taurus symbol cause I am a Taurus. 18 is the Vikings V logo. One of my favorite shows and I needed it so badly. And last but not least 19 my arrow head for Arrow. Again another favorite show that I had to get it.

I will be adding more in a few days when I get my next 3. I’m honestly so freaking excited about it.

[dollsome-does-tumblr]

☕️ + opinion on cruise ships (you did say it could be a random topic!) 🤣

I never want to go on one -- I just really don't want to be out on the open ocean with a bunch of strangers for recreational purposes -- but also, every time PBS plays the Viking River Cruise ad, I'm like, "Oh my God, I've gotta go to there RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!"

[beckywarrenegypt2024]

THURSDAY OCTOBER 3, 2024 — ASWAN, EGYPT. Another full day. And a day full of crocodiles!

Today was so filled with sights and activities that I'm going to break it into two blog posts. We usually start our outings by getting into buses. Today our buses were on the water. All of our morning destinations were upstream (which is south on the River Nile). You will see in the photo that there is the water, then a fairly narrow line of trees, and then the rising hills of sand. That sand is the eastern edge of the Sahara Desert, and it continues west for 2,500 miles to the Atlantic Ocean. The Nile Valley is a narrow fertile strip in an otherwise huge and arid Northern Africa. And nearly 100% of the population of Egypt lives on that 5% of the land that is green and fertile.

Our first stop was in a Nubian village. The Nubians are an ancient, unique, and separate culture in the south of Egypt. We got to visit a typical Nubian home, where an extended family of 13 lives. We got to see crocodiles there, which used to be common on this part of the Nile until the building of the Aswan dam. As you can see, this one was not able to bite anyone, but it did pee on one woman's shoe.

Next we got to visit a nursery school, where we sat at the small, colorful desks with the students as they belted out the ABC song both in English and in Arabic. It was a real treat. Viking, the cruise line we are on, helps to support this school.

Our next stop was Philae Island, to see a temple that had been under water after the building of the dam. It has now been relocated and meticulously restored. Our tour guide Salah is an excellent teacher and storyteller. He had us spellbound as he told us the complex story of the gods and goddesses represented by this temple. And, like any good storyteller, he promised to tell us "the rest of the story" when we visit another temple… tomorrow.

Our final stop of the morning was at a papyrus studio and gallery, where we got a demonstration of how true papyrus has been made for thousands of years.

After that, we went back to the ship for lunch and some down time. But the day was not over! I'll talk about the rest of the day in a separate posting… later.

[cruiseplan]

Check river cruising off your bucket list with Viking Cruises. One of the best parts of river cruising is exploring ports you can’t get to on larger ocean liners. On Viking’s 15-Day Grand European Tour, you’ll see Melk, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg, Cologne and more. You’ll even have overnights in both Vienna and Budapest. It’s an incredible itinerary with so many unique towns to discover! https://www.cruiseplantravel.com/partner/cruise/BrandViking

[deborabuerk-the-write-stuff]

Day 6. Florence, Italy.

By Debora Ragland BuerkThe Write StuffLooking at life from a different POV. Italian Artisans at Work. With its rolling vistas and sprawling vineyards, beautiful Tuscany is known equally as the cradle of the Renaissance and a center of culinary delights and astounding wines. Throughout the emerald-green countryside dotted with cypress trees, endless delights unfold. Among them is Florence, a…

[abirpothi]

Giants of the Seas: The Biggest Ships in the World

The world’s biggest ships are marvels of engineering, towering over the water and showcasing extraordinary dimensions, cutting-edge design, and impressive capabilities. Here’s a detailed look at the largest ships ever built, listed in descending order of their size, complete with their dimensions, architects, budgets, owners, routes, purposes, and amenities.

1. Seawise Giant

The Seawise Giant, otherwise known as Oppama, Happy Giant, Jahre Viking, Knock Nevis, and Mont, was the largest ship to have ever been built. Its dimensions are 1,504ft (458.45m) in length and 226ft (68.8m) in width. Seawise Giant was constructed in 1979 by Sumitomo Heavy Industries. It was scrapped for parts in 2010.

2. Batillus Class

The Batillus Class supertankers were in service from 1976 to 2003. They are approximately 1,359ft (414m) in length and 211ft (64m) in width. Bautillus Class was designed by the shipyard, Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

3. Esso Atlantic/Esso Pacific

The two ships in the Esso Atlantic class — Esso Atlantic and Esso Pacific were built in 1977 by Hitachi Zosen Corporation Ariake. They measure approximately 1,334ft (407m) in length and 163ft (49.7m) in width. Both Esso Atlantic and Esso Pacific were scrapped in 2002.

4. Mol Triumph Class

The Mol Triumph class was built by Samsung Heavy Industries in 2017. They measure 1,312ft (400m) in length and 197ft (60m) in width.

5. Pioneering Spirit

The Pioneering Spirit or Pieter Schelte has the dimensions of 1,253ft (381m) in length and 407ft (124m) in width. It was launched in 2013 by the Swiss conglomerate, Allseas Group.

6. Oasis Class

The Oasis Class is a group of 7 Royal Caribbean International (RCI) cruise ships. The first cruise ship was launched in 2009. The ship is approximately 1,187ft (362m) in length and  208ft (63.7m) in width. Oasis Class was built by STX Finland Turku Shipyard and Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

7. Valemax

Valemax ships are ore carriers measuring 1,181ft (360m) in length and 207ft (63m) in width. It is owned and operated by Vale SA, a Brazilian mining company.  Valemax ships were designed by Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering. It has been in service since 2011.

8. Quantum Class

RCI also operates the Quantum Class cruise ships. These ships are 1,141ft (348 m) in length and 136ft (41.4m) in width. It was designed by the architectural firm, Meyer Werft. Quantum Class took its first sail in 2014.

9. Queen Mary 2

The RMS Queen Mary 2 is 1,132ft (345m) in length and 131ft (40m) in width. It was designed by the naval architect Stephen Payne. Queen Mary 2 was launched in 2003 and has been owned by Cunard Line.

10. Berge Stahl

The MS Berge Stahl measured 1,123ft (342m) in length and 188ft (57.5m) in width. The ship was built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in 1986. The Berge Stahl was scrapped in July 2021.

These colossal ships represent the pinnacle of maritime engineering, each serving specific purposes with unique design features and amenities. From luxury cruise liners like the Queen Mary 2 to massive cargo carriers like the Seawise Giant, they showcase human ingenuity and the ability to master the vastness of the oceans.

[pursuitist]

5 Enriching River Voyages to Celebrate France’s Cultural Treasures

The Paris Games for the 2024 Summer Olympics have put France in the spotlight, making us all wish we were there for the athletic events and the opportunity to explore the France’s regal history, culture, style, and, of course, cuisine.  As a proud supporter of the Paris Games television coverage, Viking Cruises is providing curious travelers all the inspiration needed to plan a river or ocean…

[thetravelspy]

This is a really informative article from Cruise Critic about what to do if you get left behind when your ship leaves port and what you can do to avoid it.

Avoid assumptions and take precautions. Be aware of this potential situation and how this can easily happen to you. It's amazing how many people still get caught out by this.

[libertyoftheseasdeckplan]

Exploring the Liberty of the Seas Deck Plan: A Guide for Cruise Enthusiasts

The Liberty of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean's Freedom-class cruise ships, is a floating paradise offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. For those planning a voyage aboard this magnificent vessel, understanding its deck plan can significantly enhance the cruising experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key features and amenities of the Liberty of the Seas, deck by deck, ensuring you make the most of your time on board.

Deck 2: Accommodations and Medical Facilities

Deck 2 is primarily dedicated to passenger accommodations, featuring a range of staterooms from interior to oceanview options. This deck also houses the medical center, equipped to handle various health emergencies, ensuring passengers' well-being throughout their journey.

Deck 3: Entertainment and Dining

Deck 3 is where the excitement begins. The Alhambra Theatre is the main highlight, offering Broadway-style performances and other entertainment options. For dining, the Rembrandt Dining Room provides a classic cruise dining experience with a menu that changes daily, featuring international cuisine and special dietary options.

Deck 4: Casino and Nightlife

Deck 4 is synonymous with nightlife and entertainment. The Casino Royale is a major attraction, with an array of gaming options from slot machines to poker tables. For those seeking a vibrant nightlife, Boleros Lounge offers live Latin music and a variety of cocktails. Additionally, the Studio B ice-skating rink hosts dazzling ice shows and open skating sessions.

Deck 5: Royal Promenade and Shops

The Royal Promenade on Deck 5 is the ship's bustling hub, featuring a range of shops, cafes, and bars. Here, passengers can enjoy duty-free shopping at high-end boutiques, savor a coffee at Café Promenade, or relax with a drink at the English-style pub, Hoof & Claw. The promenade also hosts parades and parties, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Deck 6: More Staterooms and a Vitality Spa Entrance

Deck 6 primarily consists of staterooms, including interior, oceanview, and balcony options. This deck also provides access to the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, offering a range of treatments, from massages to facials, as well as state-of-the-art fitness equipment and classes.

Deck 7 to Deck 9: Accommodations

These decks are primarily residential, offering a variety of staterooms to suit different preferences and budgets. Passengers can choose from interior, oceanview, balcony, and luxurious suite options. These decks provide a quieter atmosphere, ideal for rest and relaxation.

Deck 10: Suites and Concierge Club

Deck 10 is dedicated to the ship's most luxurious accommodations, including the Royal, Owner's, and Grand Suites. Suite guests enjoy exclusive access to the Concierge Club, where they can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, hors d'oeuvres, and personalized service from the concierge staff.

Deck 11: Pool and Sports Zone

Deck 11 is a hub of activity with its extensive pool and sports facilities. The main pool area features multiple pools and hot tubs, including a family-friendly pool and the adults-only Solarium. The sports court offers activities like basketball and volleyball, while the FlowRider surf simulator provides thrills for adventure seekers.

Deck 12: Youth and Teen Spaces

Deck 12 caters to younger passengers with its dedicated youth and teen spaces. Adventure Ocean Youth Program offers age-appropriate activities and entertainment for kids and teens. The Living Room and Fuel Teen Club provide cool hangout spots with music, games, and events tailored for teenagers.

Deck 13: Sports and Sun Deck

Deck 13 features additional sports facilities, including a mini-golf course, rock climbing wall, and the signature FlowRider surf simulator. This deck also has plenty of sun loungers for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic ocean views.

Deck 14: Viking Crown Lounge and Specialty Dining

Deck 14 is home to the Viking Crown Lounge, offering stunning 360-degree views of the ocean. This deck also features specialty dining options, such as Chops Grille, serving premium steaks and seafood, and Giovanni’s Table, offering Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.

Deck 15: Skylight Chapel and Sun Deck

The highest passenger deck, Deck 15, houses the Skylight Chapel, a serene venue for weddings and vow renewals. This deck also features a sun deck, providing a tranquil space for sunbathing and relaxation away from the bustling pool areas.

Conclusion

The Liberty of the Seas is a marvel of modern engineering and luxury, offering a diverse range of amenities and activities across its 15 decks. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, fine dining, or family fun, this ship has something to cater to every passenger's desires. Understanding the deck plan can help you navigate the ship more efficiently, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the incredible experiences on offer. Prepare to embark on a memorable journey aboard the Liberty of the Seas, where every deck promises a unique and enriching experience.

[libertyoftheseas]

A Guide to the Liberty of the Seas Deck Plans

Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas, a member of the Freedom class, is a grand vessel known for its wide range of amenities and accommodations spread across 15 decks. Since its debut in 2007 and refurbishment in 2016, it continues to offer guests a blend of luxury, entertainment, and adventure. Here’s a detailed exploration of what each deck has in store.

 Deck 2: Starting Point

Deck 2 houses essential staterooms, including ocean view and interior options, providing comfortable accommodations. This deck also contains the medical center, ensuring that guests have access to necessary healthcare services.

 Deck 3: Entertainment Hub

Deck 3 is where the entertainment action begins. It features the lower level of the Platinum Theatre, where guests can enjoy Broadway-style shows and other live performances. Studio B, the ice-skating rink, hosts impressive ice shows and offers opportunities for guest skating. The Art Gallery is also situated here, showcasing artworks available for purchase.

 Deck 4: Casino and Performances

Deck 4 is a hotspot for gaming and entertainment. Casino Royale offers a variety of games, while the Schooner Bar provides a nautical-themed setting for cocktails and live piano music. This deck also includes the mezzanine level of the Platinum Theatre, offering excellent views of the stage.

 Deck 5: Royal Promenade

Deck 5 is the bustling core of Liberty of the Seas. The Royal Promenade, an indoor boulevard, features shops, cafes, and bars. Dining options on this deck include Sorrento’s Pizzeria, the Cupcake Cupboard, and an English pub. The Main Dining Room, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is also located here.

 Deck 6: Relaxation and Accommodation

Deck 6 offers a variety of staterooms, including balcony, ocean view, and interior cabins. The Vitality Spa on this deck provides a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate guests, offering a peaceful escape from the ship's bustling activities.

 Deck 7: Quiet Spaces

Deck 7 continues with a mix of staterooms, many featuring private balconies. The library and card room on this deck provide quiet spaces for reading, games, and relaxation.

 Deck 8: Business and Comfort

Deck 8 houses additional staterooms and the Business Services area, catering to guests who need to stay connected and manage work-related tasks during their cruise.

 Deck 9: Luxury Accommodations

Deck 9 offers a range of luxurious staterooms and suites, providing enhanced amenities and extra space for a more comfortable stay. These accommodations are ideal for guests seeking a more upscale experience.

 Deck 10: Family Focus

Deck 10 is designed with families in mind, featuring spacious family staterooms and suites. These rooms offer additional space and amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for larger groups.

 Deck 11: Fitness and Pools

Deck 11 is the wellness and activity hub of the ship. It includes a state-of-the-art fitness center and the adults-only Solarium, complete with whirlpools. The main pool area features multiple pools and hot tubs, while the H2O Zone kids’ water park provides fun for younger guests.

 Deck 12: Youth Activities

Deck 12 is dedicated to younger passengers, with the Adventure Ocean Youth Program offering age-appropriate activities for children and teens. This deck also includes additional staterooms, including family-friendly options.

 Deck 13: Adventure and Fun

Deck 13 is packed with thrilling activities, including the FlowRider surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, and a mini-golf course. The Viking Crown Lounge provides panoramic views and a relaxing atmosphere for unwinding.

 Deck 14: Scenic Views

Deck 14 features staterooms with stunning sea views and includes the Cloud Nine and Seven Hearts card rooms, perfect for card games and quiet relaxation.

 Deck 15: Sun and Serenity

Deck 15 is dedicated to ultimate relaxation, featuring the Sun Deck and the adults-only Solarium. It’s an ideal spot for soaking up the sun, enjoying the sea breeze, and finding a peaceful retreat.

 Conclusion

Liberty of the Seas offers a diverse range of experiences across its 15 meticulously designed decks. From entertainment and dining to relaxation and adventure, each deck provides unique amenities and activities to ensure every guest has a memorable cruise experience. Whether you’re seeking excitement, serenity, or a blend of both, Liberty of the Seas caters to all tastes and preferences, making it a perfect choice for an unforgettable cruise vacation.