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25 Cool Little Details on the World's Biggest Cruise Ship

5/29/2016

Carousel on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas

By John Roberts

Royal Caribbean's new big cruise ship Harmony of the Seas sailed out of Southampton, England, with plenty of publicity about all the big things it features. Most notably: It's the largest cruise ship in the world and will regularly carry more about 6,000 passengers on itineraries departing from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean once it arrives in the U.S.

You'll be hearing plenty about the waterslides and Ultimate Abyss 10-story thrill ride, as well as popular favorites that appear on other Royal Caribbean ships, like the FlowRider surfing simulator, zipline, rock climbing walls, skating rinks, Central Park neighborhood, the Promenade and Boardwalk.

But Harmony of the Seas also offers interesting little spaces and touches that give the ship its own character. Here are 25 neat little things to find on the world's biggest cruise ship.

Classic carousel -- It's not just for the youngsters. Hop on a horse on the Boardwalk for a gentle spin, evoking memories of your carnival days. (Pictured at top)

A Kate Spade store -- Shop for designer handbags while sailing? Sure. The Kate Spade boutique also features a live music stage up top at the Promenade. The ship also has other upscale boutiques like Bulgari, Hublot, Cartier and Omega.

What a view -- Two viewing platforms jut out from the Solarium and act as wings that you can stroll out to get a view hanging off the side of the ship, just as the captain and other officers navigating the ship can from the bridge wings you see out in front of these passenger viewing areas. They can be a bit windy out there, though.

Coke Freestyle machines -- Buy a soft drinks package and you can help yourself to unlimited refills. Make your own concoctions at the machines; two at Sorrento's on the Promenade, one at Mini Bites on Deck 16 near the sports court and two in the Windjammer buffet area.

Design touches in Windjammer -- I particularly like these rolling pins accenting the Bakery area.

Elevator icons -- Look up while riding to see exactly where you need to go. The most popular destinations are noted, like the pool deck and Central Park.

The Wonder of Our World -- The art onboard is an eclectic mix of modern pieces using a range of cool mediums. Look around in the stairwells to see all the interesting pieces, which feature small description placards giving info on the artists, how they were created and what they are meant to depict.

Puzzle Break -- Harmony of the Seas includes a dedicated space for Escape the Rubicon, an interactive game in which you decode puzzles with fellow passengers in order to escape a certain space ship-based predicament within one hour. It's a blast.

Mini Bites -- On Deck 16, near the sports-related activities, this is a nice spot offering light snacks like meatballs, mini corn dogs and fruit cups.

The Big Head -- A rotating silver giant noggin is made up of seven segmented horizontal slices that align every so often to create a complete face and head. The artistic curiosity looms over the Promenade and is a popular photo subject.

Vitality Cafe -- A quiet spot to grab a smoothie or healthy snack after a workout or spa treatment. Located on Deck 6 at the entrance to the spa and fitness center.

Gym time -- Speaking of the fitness center, Harmony of the Seas' gym is on Deck 6, giving it a nice large space away from the usual cruise ship fitness areas that are located at the top of the ship. And one deck down, accessed easily from the workout area is a jogging track on Deck 5. With 2.4 laps per mile and mostly covered areas away from poolside crowds, runners can have a pleasant and uninterrupted workout.

Kiddie climbing -- The Luckey Climber activity gives little ones a chance to burn off energy in a safe way. This spot is located on the Boardwalk in the shadows of the adult rock climbing walls.

Dive school -- Wanna-be scuba divers can get their certification onboard Harmony of the Seas with the PADI dive classes.

Beer cocktails -- The menu at Boot & Bonnet, the English-style pub on the Promenade, offers a variety of creative cocktails that blend beers and booze.

Red high-backed chairs -- Ask to pull up a seat at these beauties in Silk, the set-time dining venue on Deck 5, and you'll be sitting in style.

The Attic comedy club -- Look for late-night comedy shows at the venue dedicated to making you laugh.

Cool canines -- I found these guys occupying a spot on the wall in The Attic. This might be my favorite art feature onboard.

Jazz on 4 -- Smooth sounds in a relaxing music venue on Deck 4.

Family pool area -- This colorful place on Deck 15 is a treat for families, with little seats and tiny loungers for the kids to soak up the sun alongside their parents.

Navigational nudges -- When you are wandering the Promenade and lose your sense of direction, perhaps after a few pints at Boot & Bonnet, a handy sign post indicates Forward and Aft directions so you can get oriented properly.

The Arcades -- Harmony of the Seas has two spots with games that provide a change of pace from too much sun or to escape any rains. One on the Boardwalk and another Deck 15.

Washy washy -- No Purell-style hand sanitizer stations in the Windjammer. Signage and crew direct you toward the buffet entrance and encourage you to use the bank of hand-washing sinks. Let's hope everyone takes heed.

Ping-Pong arenas -- Two enclosed areas on Deck 16 adjacent to the sports court and the mini-golf course are the perfect solution to windy days that make it difficult to either ping or pong on most other cruise ships.

Zoltar -- Because I wanna be Big! Try not to smile when you see this classic on the Boardwalk.

Happy sailing and thanks for reading!
â€‹JR

Wait! There's more to see. Check out 5 Fun Things to Do on Harmony of the Seas.

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A Packing List for an Expedition Cruise in Alaska

5/26/2016

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Hiking in Alaska with Un-Cruise Adventures

These are the conditions you will be out enjoying, except usually with a lot more rain and mud, when on an expedition adventure in Alaska.

By John Roberts

When I was getting ready for my expedition cruise to Alaska with Un-Cruise Adventures, I gambled on the weather and won. I wanted to keep my packing light, so I took a chance and didn't overdo it with rain gear (meaning I packed none, really). We had a week of unseasonably sunny and dry conditions as we sailed through Southeastern Alaska in early May.

I lucked out, no doubt about it. I'm not saying I was smart. In fact, it was obviously foolish, but I just ran out of time to buy the proper gear and thus rolled the dice. I assume you want to be more prepared, so I am providing a smart travelers packing list for an expedition cruise to Alaska. Your packing list is much different than if you are heading out on a big ship cruise to the Caribbean. Don't bother with the shiny shoes and cocktail dresses! You'll need active gear and comfy clothes almost exclusively -- and to be ready for the rains.

Here's what to pack:

Waterproof shoes -- Get comfy shoes that can get wet while walking around on deck of the boat or to use when in kayaks, skiffs and standup paddleboards (you can always go barefoot on these, too).
Rubber boots -- While you can use your waterproof shoes for many wet conditions, some of your activities might require wet landings ashore off skiffs to go on hikes through muddy conditions in the rain forests, crossing streams and bogs. You also will have a chance to go bushwacking in similar conditions, and rain boots are the best option for these adventures. Boots take up a lot of packing space, so check whether your cruise line will rent them to you. Un-Cruise rents a pair for the week for $25, for example (this is what I did).
Rain pants/jackets -- It rains in Alaska. A lot. Except when I'm there, apparently. The top packing advice I hear repeatedly is to be prepared for lots of rain.
Insect repellent -- Mosquitos and other pesky bugs will bother you in the dense woods unless you apply repellent. Bring along a good spray or wipes.
Brimmed hat -- To keep your noggin protected from rain and sun.
Sunscreen -- Like I said, we had wonderful sunny days during my week, so you want to be ready for your long days out whale spotting, kayaking or hiking through forests.
Swimsuit -- This is for the hot tubs on your ship. And to wear when you take a polar plunge in the icy Alaska waters. You're not gonna chicken out and not do this are you?
Long-sleeve shirts -- They'll keep you warm when conditions cool after sunset and protect your arms from sun and bugs.
Sunglasses -- For those sunny periods.
Clothes you can layer -- Athletic shirts that wick perspiration are best, as well as comfy fleeces and light windbreakers.
Hooded fleeces -- Great to slip on in the evening or early morning when you're onboard and want to wander the outside decks of the ship sipping a beer or coffee and enjoy the amazing scenery and sunsets/sunrises.
Wicking athletic shirts -- You'll be very active on the trip, with all sorts of hiking, walking and kayaking opportunities. Also, consider athletic waterproof pants or tights.
Comfy sneakers or hiking shoes like Keens -- I really put my Keens to the test with miles and miles of wet hiking. They rinse clean in an instant and are ready to go the next day. You might want to pack sneakers for days when you visit more developed towns or to get around in comfort on the ship.
Extra memory cards and batteries for cameras -- You will be taking tons of pictures, and you want to make sure you're always ready with a well-powered camera that has plenty of space left on its memory card. Plus, batteries wear down more quickly when the weather is cold, like when you're out on a skiff getting up close to glaciers. (Pro tip: Back up your pictures nightly on a laptop so you won't lose all your images if the memory card gets corrupted or you lose your camera.)
Waterproof cameras -- You will be in kayaks and skiffs and have a chance to go snorkeling, too. Pack an underwater camera if you think you might be trying for pictures in rainy or underwater conditions.
DVDs or downloads of movies and TV shows -- Your cabin TVs will have limited channels with entertainment but might have a DVD player. If you want to have something to watch before you fall asleep, bring along your favorites. The boat's library also may have DVDs for you to borrow.
Books, magazines -- You'll find pockets of time to relax onboard, and many people like to sit out on the decks or in the lounge and read for a bit while waiting for the next brown bear, orca or other animal sightings.
Protein powder/bars -- I pack extra snacks for energy to supplement the fruit, granola bars and other items available onboard.
Aminos -- I also pack these powders to add flavor to my water bottles that I sip from while out participating in all the active adventures. Amino acids help prevent fatigue and support muscle recovery.

Been to Alaska on an expedition cruise? Can you think of any items I missed that you find essential? Please add them to the comments below.

Outdoor gear for Alaska expedition cruise with Un-Cruise Adventures

My gear included boots (rented from Un-Cruise Adventures), flotation vest and mud- and salt-stained jackets and pants, along with other heavily used items during my week exploring Southeastern Alaska.

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Thrills, Beauty in the Pacific Northwest with Un-Cruise Adventures

5/19/2016

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Un-Cruise Adventures Wilderness Explorer in San Juan Islands off coast of Washington

By John Roberts

On my last cruise, I showed up to my meals in the main dining room in my swim trunks. Not every time, but a few. And no one even noticed. Well, they probably noticed but didn't really care.

Not bad, Un-Cruise Adventures. Not bad at all. It seems like the only rules for the expedition cruise line relate to staying safe and having fun. The company offers a travel experience that packs one week with almost more outdoors fun than you can stand. The itineraries feature a whirlwind of activities that will leave you blissfully spent. Plus, there's a lot of great beer, too!

And, no judgments. (Swimsuits at dinner time, remember?) I cruised Un-Cruise Adventures' Wilderness Discoverer through the Pacific Northwest, visiting the San Juan and Olympic islands. I had a general knowledge of the region and these islands off the coast of Washington state, and I had always wanted to visit again to check out the hiking and maybe do some other outdoors activities.

Learn more about Un-Cruise in my interview with CEO Capt. Dan Blanchard

I'm so glad I went back there on an expedition-ship sailing with Un-Cruise, because it provided the most immersive way to get around the islands and small towns to fully appreciate just how much you can do There. While a highlight for me included sipping a cold pale ale in a bubbling hot tub in the company of new friends while watching orcas spouting off the starboard side of my ship, the Wilderness Discoverer, here are several other things to love about a voyage with Un-Cruise to the Pacific Northwest.

Hiking on Sucia in San Juan Islands Washington.

Hikes on my sailing ranged from 2 to 8 miles through lush emerald green forests.

Hiking -- Imagine disappearing into emerald green rainforests and following trails through old growth areas or alongside flowing rivers and up to scenic summits. We challenged ourselves with a 5-mile hike in Olympic National Park, a day exploring Robert Moran State Park with an 8-mile hike over Mount Constitution at Orcas Island and end-to-end hike through Sucia Island that tallied 6 miles, as well as a more leisurely kayak and 2-mile hike combo with constant views over the bay at Hope Island. Un-Cruise also offers hiking options in each location to accommodate those who might not want to pile up so many steps.

Snorkeling -- Yes, snorkeling. You won't see tropical fish, but you'll strap on a wet suit (it's tight folks, really tight) and plunge into 45-degree waters to poke around in depths of 10 to 15 feet. Weather must cooperate for this option to be offered. Spot sunflower sea stars with more than a dozen arms, crabs, flowing kelp and sea grasses, colorful anemones, eels, sea cucumbers and many other things that you'd only imagine in science fiction.

Kayaking -- Expert paddler, newbie or somewhere in between? Jump in a kayak with a partner and get set to explore. The guided kayak tours take you out from anchored spots in bays or sounds to explore surrounding islands or points of interest, such as coves and low-tide areas. I paddled four times during my week with Un-Cruise in the Pacific Northwest. The first tour started off pretty casually at Protection Island as we slipped easily through the perfectly calm waters toward the point, where we were greeted by about 25 curious and cute harbor seals that encircled us, swimming nearby and frequently poking their heads above water to make eye contact. (I swear they were posing for pictures.) In the shallow waters, we also saw dungeness crabs. This was an ideal way to relax and interact with nature.

Our guide Dani had us paddle out to the other side of Protection Island, where the long stretch into the waves and freshening winds offered more of a challenge. This paddle was going to provide a good workout after all. We saw stellar sea lions and several bald eagles as we became the first group to circumnavigate the island in about a year. Conditions are rarely good enough to go out past the protected cove our guide said. I was fortunate enough to have a week of unseasonably sunny and calm weather for early May in the San Juan Islands. A post-dinner kayaking session in the dark and a short kayak to a beach before we landed and set off on a hike also were top highlights during the week-long adventure.

Stand-up paddleboarding -- These extremely stable giant surfboard-looking toys can be intimidating at first, especially when one bad step means you'll be scrambling out of frigid waters. But you can quickly get the hang of paddling around the bays and coves where Un-Cruise boats anchor. The open-paddle sessions for SUP and kayaking are launched from the vessel's marine deck so you slide right into the water. I like to stand up for a bit until my knees get a little wobbly and then go ahead and relax and work on my kneel-down paddle boarding. How about lay-down paddleboarding? That's a thing, right? It sure is a restful way to float lazily around a beautiful lagoon.

If you're lucky enough, your skiff boat captain will sing you a sea shanty on your ride around the islands.

Skiff tours exploring tidal areas -- If you've done enough hiking, kayaking, swimming and paddleboarding, you can let the boat do the work. A small boat tour around shoreline is a fine way to learn about the region's geology and the creatures that appear along the intertidal areas during low tide -- like sea stars, chitons, mussels and barnacles. Plenty of birds (pigeon guillemots, eagles, terns) plus sea lions, seals and lighthouses often are spotted during these activities.

Piper at Propolis Brewing serves up beer to eager customers visiting from the cruise ship. Right, our third and final stop during our craft brew bar crawl in Port Townsend on a sunny day in the San Juan Islands.

Craft brewery tours -- Washington state is a world leader (the world leader, some say) in the craft-brewing movement. So it's fitting that you would want to try a few delicious beer creations offered on the islands at humble but charming shops, some set up in small prefab buildings but designed so that you can get a quick peek at the brewing process and chat with the owners about their recipes.

It's fantastic to sit back in small but inviting bar spaces and learn the stories behind the beers and how these entrepreneurs (some no more than 30 years old) just went for it and entered the competitive business of beer making. We stopped for tastings at Island Hoppin' Brewery on Orcas Island and at two breweries on Port Townsend -- Port Townsend Brewing Co. and Propolis Brewing.

Onboard enrichment talks -- When you go off on your activities during the day, you can gather back onboard after dinner in the lounges and discuss and learn more about what you have just seen. Talks focus on the animals in the region, history of the San Juan and Olympic Islands, geological formations, plants and trees and other topics that are raised during question-and-answer sessions. Nature nerds can totally geek out on these cruises.

Whale watching -- A top goal of almost every cruiser in the Pacific Northwest is to spot whales. We saw a couple humpbacks and an active pod of orcas, too. You'll also enjoy up-close encounters with harbor seals. We had about two dozen hang out with us during our kayak tour (noted above). Be on the lookout for porpoises (often playing in the bow wake early in the morning) and stellar sea lions (you'll know you're near when you are downwind of their distinctive smell).

Intense bonding experiences -- The boat's accommodations are modest, with small cabins and basic public areas. But this is your home for the weeklong sailing. Your room is just where you stash your clothes and plop down exhausted and satisfied after a full day of adventures. The line has an open bridge policy, so passengers can wander up to sit and talk with the captains anytime. The food is among the best I've had on any cruise. Fresh-baked breads and desserts stand out, as do the meals featuring regional specialties like salmon and scallops, for example. Also, the thick-cut peppered bacon is incredible. And the Un-Cruise staff are the stars of your trip, with expedition guides providing incredible and fun challenges for your daily activities.

They also lead the enrichment talks and will sit down to play games with you after dinner as the day winds down. Bar staff, boat operations and all other members of the crew are always smiling and asking what they can do for you, as well. Don't be surprised if several of them jump right in and join the end-of-week ritual "Polar Plunge" into the icy waters on your final full day onboard.

I still get chills thinking about my week in the Pacific Northwest with Un-Cruise Adventures, and it has nothing to do with those cold waters.

Hot tub whale watching on Un-Cruise Adventures Wilderness Discoverer

Go do this! Even if the whales evade you, you're in a hot tub ... with beer!

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25 Cool Little Details on the World's Biggest Cruise Ship

A Packing List for an Expedition Cruise in Alaska

Thrills, Beauty in the Pacific Northwest with Un-Cruise Adventures

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