Allure of the Seas changes are under way… Royal Caribbean made a splash in the cruise industry last year with the release of the world’s largest cruise ship, the Oasis of the Seas. The ship offers several firsts including a rising bar, zip-line, a Coney Island inspired boardwalk and a central park area that includes over 12,000 trees and plants.
Although the ship is selling well, no prototype is without its flaws. Based on consumer feedback, Royal Caribbean has identified some improvements and enhancements that can done before the release of it’s sister ship, the Allure of the Seas scheduled to come out this December. One area that didn’t attract as many families as anticipated, is the Boardwalk. The free carousel was surrounded by several shops and eateries, all with an additional cover charge. Consequently, the donut shop space will be converted into the “Boardwalk Dog House” serving up free hot dogs, sausages and brats with a choice of toppings. Fans of the donut shop need not worry, it is being relocated next to the ice cream shop in a smaller space. The Seafood shack which currently charges $8.95 for adults and $4.95 for kids, will be replaced by a Mexican beach bar and taqueria called Rita’s Cantina. Menu items will include chips and salsa, tacos and flautas. In the evenings, Rita’s will offer live guitar music, drinks and dancing.
Guests asked for more shopping, so the line that brought the first Coach Store at sea, will now offer the first Guess Store. This boutique will go in place of the camera shop which will be combined with the photo gallery. The ships offers over 10,000 sq. ft. of shopping.
Kiosks will be added throughout the ship to offer complimentary services to passengers including dining and spa reservations, looking up entertainment schedules and obtaining a copy of your bill.
New productions will be added in the AquaTheater, specially equipped screens will show 3-D movies and an Apple Ipod dock station will be added to each stateroom. The 3-D movie screen is the only upgrade being made to the Oasis at this time. The Allure of the Seas is set to sail on December 4th on a four night cruise from Port Everglades, and then begin seven days cruises alternating the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
